Mountain Lion Breaks Into SF Peninsula House With Taxidermy Heads

SAN BRUNO, CA — Just after midnight on Tuesday, a mountain lion crept through the window of a home in San Bruno, shattering the glass on its way in, officials said.

The lion reportedly entered the home to check out several large game taxidermy trophy heads that were mounted on the walls inside, according to a release from the San Bruno Police Department.

But the big cat's tour of the home was short-lived as the homeowner scared the animal off, police said.

Despite their stature, mountain lions pose little threat to humans, officials urged. This particular incident was out of the ordinary.

"People who live in mountain lion habitat can take precautions to reduce their risk of encountering a mountain lion," police said.

Here some safety tips offered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife:

• Deer-proof your property to avoid attracting a lion’s main food source.
• Remove dense vegetation from around the home to reduce hiding spaces.
• Install outdoor lighting to make it difficult for mountain lions to approach unseen.
• Do not leave small children or pets outside unattended.
• Always remember – Mountain lions are wild animals, and their behavior may be unpredictable.
• Do not hike, bike, or jog alone. Do not hike, bike or jog at dawn, dusk, or night.
• Stay alert on trails. Keep a close watch on small children and off-leash pets.
• Never approach a mountain lion. Give them an escape route.

Anyone who sees or encounters a mountain lion in a populated area of San Bruno may contact the police department at 650-616-7100.