Date: August 4, 2023
Contact: Hilary Gaede, Deputy Town Clerk
hgaede@yville.com; (707) 944-8851
Subject: Important Public Safety Notification - Mountain Lion Sighting in Yountville, CA
The Town of Yountville would like to inform you about a recent mountain lion sighting in the Yountville area. Your safety is our top priority, and we would like to share some important information and precautionary steps to ensure your well-being and that of your loved ones.
Sighting Details:
A mountain lion was spotted near Jefferson and Madison at approximately 6:00 AM on August 4, 2023. While mountain lion sightings are rare, they are native to the region and may occasionally venture close to residential areas.
Precautionary Steps:
- Avoid Approaching: If you encounter a mountain lion, do not approach it. Keep a safe distance and avoid disturbing the animal.
- Stay Calm: While encountering a mountain lion can be frightening, it's important to remain calm. The lion is more likely to move away if it does not perceive you as a threat.
- Maintain Eye Contact: If you come across a mountain lion, try to make yourself look larger by raising your arms and standing tall. Maintain eye contact with the animal and speak calmly.
- Back Away Slowly: Slowly back away from the mountain lion while keeping a watchful eye on its movements. Do not turn your back or run.
- Protect Children and Pets: Keep children and pets close to you, and do not let them run ahead or play unattended, especially during dawn and dusk when mountain lions are most active.
- Make Noise: If the mountain lion approaches or acts aggressively, make loud noises, shout, and throw objects to deter it from coming closer.
Reporting Sightings:
If you spot a mountain lion or have any information about its whereabouts, please notify the Napa County Sheriff’s Office immediately at 253-4451. The public can also report mountain lion sightings to the California Department of Fish and Wildlife through its Wildlife Incident Reporting system at apps.wildlife.ca.gov/wir. Your report can help ensure the safety of our community and assist wildlife officials in managing these situations appropriately.
For additional safety tips and information, you can visit the California Department of Fish and Wildlife's website: Mountain Lions in California.
The Town encourages all residents to be vigilant and informed about local wildlife. By taking these precautionary steps, we can coexist with our natural surroundings and ensure a safe environment for everyone.
Thank you for your attention to this matter and for your continued cooperation in keeping our community secure.
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