A tragic incident has occurred in Colorado, where a hiker is believed to have lost her life due to a mountain lion attack. This incident may mark the first fatal attack attributed to mountain lions in the state since 1999.
Details of the Attack
On Wednesday, a group of hikers discovered the woman’s body along a secluded trail. They noticed a mountain lion nearby and promptly frightened it away by throwing rocks. Unfortunately, upon checking the woman, they found no signs of life.
Investigation and Euthanization of Mountain Lions
Following the discovery, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) officials launched an investigation. Two mountain lions were euthanized as part of the search efforts. CPW spokesperson Kara Van Hoose stated that the authorities are examining these animals for any signs of human DNA linked to the attack.
- The first lion was shot by CPW officers after it fled the scene.
- A second lion was located and euthanized shortly thereafter.
- If neither animal is determined to be responsible, the search for the attacker will continue.
Safety Protocols and Environmental Context
According to CPW regulations, any wildlife that kills a human must be euthanized to ensure public safety. Signs on the woman’s body indicated that she had been attacked by a mountain lion.
The tragedy unfolded on the Crosier Mountain Trail, situated north of Denver and near the Rocky Mountain National Park, where hikers often encounter poor cell service. This area is known for its seclusion, making it a popular yet risky destination.
Search and Recovery Efforts
The Larimer County sheriff, local police, and volunteer firefighters all contributed to the search for the mountain lions. A biologist conducting a deer survey in the area assisted with tracking efforts, while hound teams were deployed to help locate the lion. Tracking animals by scent is often an effective method in such situations.
Mountain Lion Attacks: A Rare Occurrence
Attacks from mountain lions, while alarming, are infrequent in Colorado. Since 1990, CPW has documented a total of 28 mountain lion attacks, both fatal and non-fatal. Mountain lions, also known as pumas or cougars, primarily inhabit western states in North America and are typically solitary hunters.
This unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the potential dangers of outdoor activities, particularly in remote areas inhabited by wildlife.
