Mountain Lion Sighted Near Area Reservoir
WEST HILLS — A mountain lion approached a woman as she got out of her car near Chatsworth Reservoir on Monday morning, at least the second time this month that a mountain lion has been sighted in the San Fernando Valley.
The woman, who was not identified, managed to scare away the animal and was not hurt. Animal control officials who searched the area Monday were unable to find the lion, said Peter Persic, spokesman for Los Angeles city Department of Animal Services.
On Nov. 7, a lion was seen in Granada Hills across from Frost Junior High School.
“People need to be aware that there is wildlife in close proximity to the places where we live and work and to be alert,” Persic said.
Such sightings have become more common in recent years in neighborhoods that border parks or wilderness areas. Persic recommended that residents keep their trash secured and clean up any fruit fallen from trees. He also said children and small pets should be watched especially closely.
Wildlife experts say the mountain lion population in California has grown beyond the capacity of the diminishing amount of suitable habitat, forcing younger or weaker lions into suburban areas.
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