Mountain Lions Spotted in Pogonip Park

Two hikers told police they spotted two full-grown mountain lions in a Santa Cruz park early Tuesday morning.

Around 6 a.m. the hikers said they saw the big cats near the upper
meadows of Pogonip Park near the Spring Street entrance, Santa Cruz police
said.

The hikers were not injured but it appeared the mountain lions were interested in their off-leash dog, according to police.

Police are alerting residents about this dangerous situation and are reminding hikers to avoid trekking alone and to always take a cellphone.

Police also advise those who do encounter a mountain lion to not run away but to face the animal and try to appear as big as possible while making loud noises. 

Hikers with dogs should keep them on-leash within the park, police said.

According to mountainlion.org, "home territories of mountain lions can cover hundreds of square miles." As such, all of Santa Cruz County should be on alert when hiking, especially with dogs off leash. 

--Reporting by Bay City News