Mountain Lion Captured Near California College Campus

Authorities relocate the animal after sightings prompt safety alert

Apr. 5, 2026 at 4:36pm

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A mountain lion spotted last week near Merced College in California has been captured and relocated by authorities. The animal was first spotted on Thursday, leading the college to issue a safety alert. On Friday, a resident spotted the mountain lion in a tree and called the police, who then notified the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. The mountain lion was tranquilized and removed to be relocated to a more remote area.

Why it matters

Mountain lion sightings near populated areas can raise public safety concerns, as these large predators are capable of attacking humans, though such incidents are rare. Proper response protocols help ensure the safety of both the public and the animal.

The details

After the initial sighting on Thursday, police and wildlife officials worked quickly to locate and capture the mountain lion on Friday. The animal was found in a tree by a resident, who alerted authorities. Wildlife officials then tranquilized the mountain lion and transported it to be relocated to a more remote, natural habitat away from the college campus and residential areas.

  • The mountain lion was first spotted near Merced College on Thursday, April 4, 2026.
  • On Friday, April 5, 2026, a resident spotted the mountain lion in a tree and called the police.

The players

Merced College

A community college located in Merced, California, where the mountain lion was initially spotted.

California Department of Fish and Wildlife

The state agency responsible for managing and protecting California's wildlife, including relocating the mountain lion spotted near Merced College.

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The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for residents in areas with mountain lion populations to be aware of their surroundings and follow safety guidelines if they encounter one of these large predators. Proper response protocols help ensure the safety of both the public and the wildlife.