Juvenile mountain lion captured near Montanoso Rec Center

MISSION VIEJO, CALIFORNIA (13 Jul 2021) — Authorities captured a juvenile mountain lion initially spotted last week around Montanoso Drive and Serenata Drive early this morning.

Mission Viejo Animal Services, working with California Department of Fish and Wildlife, had tracked the young lion since last Thursday.

The lion, which appeared to be healthy, was confirmed to be young, weighing about 70 pounds. Adults typically weigh 100-120 pounds.

CDFW biologists transported the cat to a licensed facility for further evaluation.

“We are so grateful to our partners at the Orange County Sheriff’s Department and CDFW for all their support with this matter,” said Mission Viejo Animal Services Manager Michelle Claud-Clemente. “MVAS is extremely happy about this positive outcome for both our community and the wildlife that shares it with us. We could not have had such a great outcome without everyone working together.”

A biologist from the CDFA set up a perimeter and set a trap, but the animal was not immediately captured, so the agencies set traps in the area of the Montanoso Recreation Center at 25800 Montanoso Drive.

Mountain lions hunt deer, which live in the surrounding area, as well as coyotes, raccoons, skunks, opossums, rodents, rabbits, etc. They do not typically prey on domestic animals unless an opportunity arises and are solitary, elusive and typically avoid humans as much as possible. These cats are helpful in maintaining order in our ecosystem and assist to keep other wildlife numbers in check, according to information published on the MVAS website.

“It’s good to remember we live in mountain lion country, and although it’s uncommon for them to come near humans, it can happen,” Claud-Clemente added. “Being knowledgeable can help keep you and our amazing local wildlife stay safe.”

Photo:  Mission Viejo Animal Services/