MOUNTAIN LION SPOTTED IN SANTEE NEIGHBORHOOD
August 6, 2012 (Santee)--A mountain lion has been reported in the 10700 block of Princess Arlene, a residential neighborhood in Santee. Incident Page Network indicates that San Diego Sheriff and animal control officers are conducting a search of the area.
A mountain lion was also spotted days ago in an Alpine residential neighborhood. Mountain lions are native to our region, though the normally shy animals are rarely seen. Shooting a mountain lion is illegal in California, except in cases where a permit is obtained such as to address livestock predation. Violators have faced stiff penalties.
When a mountain lion is in the area, don't panic. It's wise however not to allow small children or small pets outdoors unsupervised. Avoid creating an attraction for the lion, such as chickens that are not in a protected coop.
Mountain lions have vast territories and have been known to travel hundreds of miles in a matter of days. One local lion killed by a vehicle in the Jamul area was found to have frequented a beach north of Oceanside.