BONNERS FERRY, Idaho. – Multiple mountain lion sightings were reported to the Bonners Ferry Police Department, prompting the Boundary County Sheriff’s Office to remind citizens how to handle a mountain lion encounter.
The Sheriff’s Office said the sightings happened early in the morning near Eisenhower Street and the Jenny Lane Apartments on Wilson St. and Cody St.
“It is imperative that those walking around in the area be vigilant and consider carrying bear spray, which has been shown to be effective against mountain lions,” the Sheriff’s Office said.
Idaho Fish and Game and the Boundary County School District were both notified about the mountain lion. The Sheriff’s Office said Valley View Elementary School was in the area of the sightings.
Idaho Fish and Game’s guidelines for mountain lion encounters are: Do not run, turn your back, crouch or try to hide from the mountain lion, face the mountain lion and back away slowly while leaving it an escape route and try to appear as large as possible.
If the mountain lion does not back off, Idaho Fish and Game said to shout, wave your arms and throw objects.
The Boundary County Sheriff’s Office asked people who see the mountain lion to call the non-emergency dispatch number at 208-267-3151. However, if a mountain lion is harassing you or another person, the Sheriff’s Office said to call 911.
