Park Closed: Mountain Lions Afoot In Whiting Ranch Wilderness

RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA, CA — The Whiting Ranch Wilderness Park is closed until further notice due to mountain lion activity.

The Foothill Ranch area is notorious for its mountain lion activity, and February sightings have led officials to shutter the walking trails for the time being, as of Monday.

"Mountain lions are unpredictable," a spokesperson for OC Parks says. "They have been known to attack without warning."

As no one's safety can be guaranteed in the park due to the wildlife activity, all are advised to stay alert.

If you encounter a mountain lion, don't run, experts say.

"Hold your ground, wave your hands and shout!" they say.

• Don't Run
• Hold your ground, wave your hands and shout!
• If the lion behaves aggressively, throw stones.
• Convince the lion that you are not prey and that you may be dangerous to it.
• Do all that you can to appear larger. Pick up small children and place them on your shoulders, if you can.
• Don't crouch down. The lion has seen you long before you saw it.
• Report mountain lion sightings, in detail, to a Park Ranger as soon as possible.