A woman died Thursday in Larimer County, Colorado, following a suspected attack by a mountain lion, according to officials. The incident occurred on the Crosier Mountain trail.
Details of the Incident
Hikers reported seeing a mountain lion near the woman, who was lying on the ground, around 12:15 p.m. The hikers attempted to scare the lion away by throwing rocks and then provided assistance. A physician among the hikers determined the woman had no pulse, according to Kara Van Hoose, spokesperson with Colorado Parks and Wildlife.
Authorities, including Colorado Parks and Wildlife, Larimer County Sheriff deputies, Estes Park police, and Glen Haven Area Volunteer firefighters, responded to the scene. A search was launched, aided by a biologist conducting aerial deer surveys and houndsmen tracking the scent of mountain lions.
Investigation and Euthanasia
One mountain lion was initially located at the scene but fled after being shot at. It was subsequently tracked and euthanized, as is the policy of Colorado Parks and Wildlife when wildlife is involved in attacks on humans. A second mountain lion was also found nearby and euthanized for the same reason.
It remains unknown if one or multiple mountain lions were involved in the suspected attack. Pathologists will conduct necropsies on the euthanized animals to check for abnormalities, including rabies and avian influenza. They will also test for the presence of human DNA. If no human DNA is found, the search for additional animals may continue.
As of Friday, authorities were continuing to search for a third mountain lion observed in the vicinity of the incident.
Context and Safety Recommendations
Colorado Parks and Wildlife reports that mountain lion attacks on humans are rare, with 28 attacks reported since 1990. The area where the incident occurred is described as remote, heavily wooded, and a common habitat for mountain lions, as well as other wildlife like bears and moose. Mountain lion activity is often increased in the winter months as they follow deer and elk to lower elevations.
The agency advises hikers to make noise, appear larger, and back away if they encounter a mountain lion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being done to identify the victim?
The victim’s identity and the official cause of death will be released by the Larimer County Coroner.
Will the search continue if no human DNA is found on the euthanized mountain lions?
Yes, if the necropsy and DNA tests do not provide evidence linking the euthanized mountain lions to the attack, a search will continue for additional animals.
Is this area known for mountain lion activity?
Yes, the Crosier Mountain trail area is described as a common habitat for mountain lions, along with other wildlife, and authorities expect occasional encounters between humans and wildlife.
Given the rarity of fatal mountain lion attacks in Colorado, what steps might be taken to further assess and mitigate risks in this region?