The Big Bear region, nestled high in the San Bernardino Mountains of Southern California, is a popular destination for recreation. This area is located at the wildland-urban interface, meaning human development exists alongside a complex ecosystem. Understanding the local wildlife, especially the largest predators, helps ensure the safety of both people and animals.
Confirming the Presence of Mountain Lions in Big Bear
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are native to California and are present throughout the San Bernardino National Forest lands surrounding Big Bear. These large, tawny-colored cats are highly adaptable, inhabiting the dense forests and rugged terrain of this mountain range. Their presence is a natural consequence of the area providing suitable habitat and a consistent food supply.
The primary prey for mountain lions in this ecosystem is the mule deer, which is abundant across the Big Bear valley and surrounding forests. A single adult mountain lion can maintain a home range of up to 150 square miles for males and 50 square miles for females, meaning the Big Bear area falls squarely within the territory of multiple animals. While these cats are solitary and elusive, preferring to avoid human contact, their activity is tracked by wildlife officials like the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW). Tracking their movements provides data on population health and helps inform public safety measures where their ranges overlap with human activity.
Safety Protocols During an Encounter
While the chances of a mountain lion attack are statistically low, knowing the correct response to an encounter is paramount for safety. The first rule is never to run, as this action can trigger the cat’s instinct to chase. Instead, immediately face the animal and maintain direct eye contact, signaling that you are not prey.
Next, make yourself appear as large and intimidating as possible. Achieve this by raising your arms above your head, opening your jacket, or picking up small children without bending over or crouching down. Simultaneously, make loud, assertive noises by shouting or yelling in a firm voice to discourage the animal from approaching. If the mountain lion still does not retreat, throw objects toward it, such as rocks, sticks, or your water bottle, without turning your back.
If the mountain lion exhibits aggressive behavior or attacks, fight back with all your strength. Focus your defense on protecting your neck and head while using any available tool, like a backpack or sturdy stick, as a weapon. Mountain lions are ambush predators that prefer easy targets, and a forceful defense often convinces the animal that you are not worth the risk. Immediately report all encounters and aggressive sightings to the CDFW.
Living Alongside Big Bear’s Largest Predator
Coexisting with mountain lions in the Big Bear area requires proactive prevention and a consistent effort to remove potential attractants from residential properties. Securing pets is one of the most effective measures, as roaming domestic animals, especially small dogs and cats, are easily viewed as prey. Keep pets indoors overnight and ensure dogs are on a secure leash when outside, particularly during dawn and dusk when mountain lions are most active.
Residents should also “deer-proof” their property by eliminating plants that attract the mountain lion’s primary food source. Removing dense vegetation or brush near the home reduces potential hiding spots the cat might use for an ambush. Installing motion-activated outdoor lighting around your home and yard can deter a mountain lion, as they prefer to hunt under the cover of darkness.
When recreating on trails, hiking in groups is a simple but effective safety strategy, as mountain lions are far less likely to approach multiple people. Supervise small children and keep them close on trails to prevent them from wandering out of sight. Long-term cohabitation depends on minimizing opportunities for mountain lions to associate the residential area with an easy meal.