Remember the part of The Parent Trap when Vicki is convinced by the twins to tap two sticks together to keep the mountain lions away? Remember how all of us, sat cozily on our couches and laughed at the poor woman as she tapped her sticks together and hysterically called out during her tormented hike through the woods? Well, during a recent trip to Roxborough State Park in Colorado I was shocked to find out that Vicki’s noisy approach to hiking is nearly exactly what you’re supposed to do in the case of a real mountain lion attack.
As we approached the trailhead we noticed a sign instructing us on “What to do if you meet a Mountain Lion.” The sign instructed you to “Hike in groups, make a lot of noise and to carry a big walking stick to ward off a lion.” They also said to: “1. Stay calm, 2. Stop or back away slowly. 3. Do all you can to appear larger. 4. Fight back.” Then the sign stated a significant disclaimer: “No studies have been done to determine what to do if you meet a lion. But based on observations by people who have come upon lions, some patterns of behavior and response are beginning to emerge. The following suggestions MAY be helpful. But remember: every situation is different with respect to the lion, the terrain and the people and their activity.”*
My reaction: WHAT!! Hurry up! Do a study on mountain lion attacks! Scientists what have you been doing? Get going- write for funding- be confident that your advice will stick and I’ll be safe when I fight my mountain lion!
I have to say that my paranoia began as soon as I read that sign…the beautiful and scenic hike took on a sinister feel. I imagined mountain lions crouched in the brush right next to me. It was difficult to focus on the beautiful butterflies, neat wildflowers and impressive rock formations when I was busy scanning the environment for smashed down grasses, glowing yellow eyes, and maybe even some glistening teeth.
Luckily we escaped the hike without incident. Next time I’ll bring that walking stick and maybe my old school battery powered boom box. A little “New Kids on the Block” circa the 1980s should scare off the big game.
Hysteria aside, Roxborough Park was a beautiful place and a straightforward easy hike. Its well worth a visit just leave your dogs at home and be prepared to defend yourself in real mountain lion territory.
*From: Living with Wildlife in Lion Country, Colorado Division of Wildlife, Colorodo State university Cooperative Extension page D-20
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
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