The Downieville tennis court is closed by the Sierra County Department of Public Works
DOWNIEVILLE — Monday morning at roughly 3 AM, a mountain lion attacked and killed a dog on upper Main Street in Downieville. The lion was promptly shot and killed, but it was part of a group containing two others, as confirmed by witness statements taken by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). As a result, Sierra County Public Works closed the Downieville tennis court and adjoining basketball court and playground, which are near the site of the attack, on Monday afternoon at the direction of the Sierra County Sheriff’s Office. CDFW is actively investigating to determine a course of action. Several reports of missing pet cats are speculated to also result from mountain lion attacks, but the Sheriff’s Office could not confirm that to be the case.
According to Sheriff Mike Fisher, the incident does not rise to the level of needing to issue a public safety declaration to have the lions put down, but he advises locals to stay safe and vigilant. “Keep your pets indoors,” says Fisher, adding, “I probably wouldn’t jog in that area right now, at least early morning and late evening.” The Sheriff’s Office issued a statement on Facebook urging any mountain lion sightings be reported by calling (530) 289-3700 or emailing wildlifeconflict@sierracounty.ca.gov, with photographs and videos appreciated.
Notice posted at the Downieville playground next to the tennis court at the direction of the Sheriff’s Department
The Sheriff’s Office lists the following tips for preventing an attack:
Keep pets indoors, especially at night.
If you must take pets outside, keep them on a leash and close to you.
Avoid hiking or jogging alone, especially at dawn, dusk, or night.
If you encounter a mountain lion:
Stay calm, and do not run.
Make yourself appear larger by raising your arms and speaking firmly.
Slowly back away, giving the lion an opportunity to retreat.
If the lion acts aggressively, throw objects, yell, and fight back if attacked.