LEWISTON, Idaho — A mountain lion that wandered into Lewiston city limits was humanely euthanized early Tuesday morning due to public safety concerns, according to Idaho Fish and Game.
Officials found the animal approximately one mile from where it was originally spotted. The lion’s location and size suggested it was the same animal from the initial sighting. The mountain lion was first reported within city limits on Feb. 1.
Officials said they could not safely conduct chemical immobilization due to the animal’s location and proximity to residential areas.
“Lethally removing an animal is never an easy decision,” Idaho Fish and Game stated. The department emphasized that public safety remains the top priority when responding to wildlife incidents in urban areas.
Mountain lion sightings in urban areas, while uncommon, do occur as development expands into wildlife habitat. The animals typically avoid human contact but can pose risks when they enter populated areas, particularly if they become habituated to human presence or food sources.
Idaho Fish and Game encourage residents to report wildlife sightings in urban areas immediately to help officials respond appropriately and ensure public safety.
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