Predator Attack on Child during Family Hike: Rare Encounter with a Mountain Lion on a Popular Trail in Olympic National Park
In a recent incident, a four-year-old child was attacked by a mountain lion in Olympic National Park during a family hike. The incident occurred on Sunday, July 20, near the Victoria Overlook area on Hurricane Ridge, one of the busier mountain areas in the park with multiple short, family-friendly trails.
The child was airlifted by a LifeFlight helicopter and is currently undergoing treatment in a Seattle hospital. The extent of the injuries has not been revealed. The mountain lion was located at around 5pm and euthanized the following morning.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety when hiking or recreating in mountain lion country, even in National Parks. Here are some standard safety guidelines to follow when encountering a mountain lion:
- Do not run or turn your back; instead, face the cougar and maintain eye contact to show you are not prey.
- Appear bigger by raising your arms or an object above your head to intimidate the mountain lion.
- Be aggressive if the cougar behaves aggressively: shout, wave sticks, or throw rocks to scare it off.
- Pick up small children immediately and keep them close between adults; children are more vulnerable and more likely targets.
- Stay in groups of three or more, especially during dawn and dusk when cougars are most active.
- Keep pets on leashes and close, do not let them run ahead or roam free, as pets can attract cougars.
- Retreat slowly if you need to back away; do not run or play dead, which may trigger a chase or attack response from the cougar.
- Always follow park-specific guidance and keep a safe distance, at least 100 yards, from mountain lions if you see one from afar.
Park rangers are asking for witnesses to contact them at 888-653-0009 or email [email protected]. It's important to note that mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, but they do happen.
The mountain lion in this incident was collared, suggesting it was part of a research project. This highlights the importance of understanding these animals' behavior and taking necessary precautions when in their habitat.
Mountain lions are a common sight in many North American National Parks, including Jasper, Yellowstone, and Olympic National Park. To learn more about what to do if you meet a mountain lion on the trail, it's recommended to visit the park's official website or contact park rangers for guidance.
Park rangers have stated there are no current threats to the public. Hurricane Ridge can be accessed by car or bus, making it a popular destination for visitors. However, it's crucial to remain vigilant and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all.
Sports are typically associated with physical activities, competition, and teamwork. However, it's also crucial to prioritize safety when venturing into the outdoors for activities such as hiking, especially in areas populated by mountain lions.
Following guidelines like maintaining eye contact, appearing larger, and acting aggressively can help reduce the risk of encountering dangerous situations with mountain lions, making your sports and outdoor experiences more enjoyable and safe.
