Mountain Lion Trapped in California Family's Backyard

Wildlife officials released the big cat after it was found in a humane trap set for coyotes.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A San Diego County family was shocked to find a mountain lion inside a humane trap they had set up in their backyard after several of their animals went missing, including chickens and cats. The family called authorities, who released the mountain lion back into the surrounding area, much to the family's dismay as they feared the predator could return.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the challenges faced by residents in areas where wildlife and human populations intersect. The disappearance of the family's animals raised concerns about a potential predator, leading them to set up a trap, but the discovery of a mountain lion instead of a coyote underscores the need for proper wildlife management and education to ensure the safety of both people and animals.

The details

The Hernandez family of Fallbrook, California set up a humane trap in their backyard after chickens and cats started disappearing from their property. On the night of February 19, the family was shocked to find a mountain lion, not a coyote, inside the trap. They called the authorities, who arrived the next morning and released the mountain lion back into the surrounding area, despite the family's concerns about the animal's potential return.

  • The disappearance of the family's chickens and cats began prior to February 19, 2026.
  • On the night of February 19, 2026, the family discovered the mountain lion in the trap.
  • On February 20, 2026, wildlife officials arrived and released the mountain lion.

The players

Hernandez family

A San Diego County family who set up a humane trap in their backyard after several of their animals went missing, including chickens and cats.

Jeanette Villegas

A neighbor of the Hernandez family who owns horses and expressed concerns about the mountain lion being released back into the area.

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What they’re saying

“There was a big hole on the rooftop, and there were chickens missing and there were feathers all over the place.”

— Sonia Hernandez (KTLA)

“She was going to have babies soon. My mother-in-law was especially upset by the loss.”

— Sonia Hernandez (KTLA)

“Releasing that animal knowing it has a food source, I believe it may come back.”

— Jeanette Villegas, neighbor (KTLA)

What’s next

Wildlife officials will continue to monitor the area for any further sightings or incidents involving the mountain lion that was released.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of proper wildlife management and education in areas where human and animal populations intersect. Residents must be vigilant in protecting their property and pets, while also respecting the natural habitats of wild animals like mountain lions.