Mountain Lion Spotted on Lewis-Clark College Campus

Wildlife officials search area but unable to locate animal after Sunday night sighting

Feb. 3, 2026 at 12:55am

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Idaho Fish and Game officials reported that a mountain lion was spotted on the Lewis-Clark College campus in Lewiston, Idaho late Sunday evening. A search was conducted by wildlife officers and local law enforcement, but the animal could not be located. While mountain lion sightings near populated areas are uncommon, officials emphasized the importance of public safety and urged residents to remain aware of their surroundings, especially at night.

Why it matters

Mountain lion sightings in urban or campus settings can raise concerns about public safety, prompting a response from wildlife agencies to monitor the situation and provide guidance to the community. This incident highlights the need to balance wildlife conservation with protecting people in areas where development encroaches on natural habitats.

The details

According to a Fish and Game press release, surveillance footage showed what appeared to be a young mountain lion near the ticket booth by the college's baseball field on Sunday, Feb. 1. Fish and Game personnel, campus security staff, and Lewiston Police Department officers searched the area but were unable to locate the animal. As of Monday afternoon, no additional reports of mountain lion sightings within Lewiston city limits had been received.

  • The mountain lion was spotted on the Lewis-Clark College campus late Sunday evening, February 1, 2026.
  • As of Monday afternoon, February 2, 2026, no additional mountain lion sightings had been reported within Lewiston city limits.

The players

Idaho Fish and Game

The state wildlife agency responsible for managing and protecting Idaho's natural resources, including monitoring wildlife activity and responding to public safety concerns.

Jana Ashling

The regional wildlife manager for Idaho Fish and Game, who noted that while urban mountain lion sightings are uncommon, they are not unheard of.

Lewis-Clark College

A private liberal arts college located in Lewiston, Idaho, where the mountain lion was spotted on the campus.

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What they’re saying

“Mountain lions are typically nocturnal and elusive, but occasional sightings can occur near populated areas.”

— Jana Ashling, Regional Wildlife Manager, Idaho Fish and Game

What’s next

Idaho Fish and Game officials say they will continue to monitor the situation and urge residents to report any additional mountain lion sightings to the Clearwater Regional Office.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a reminder for communities to be vigilant and prepared when it comes to wildlife encounters, especially in areas where development encroaches on natural habitats. By following safety guidelines and reporting sightings, residents can help wildlife agencies effectively manage these situations and prioritize public safety.