Mountain Lion Awareness
C4008944
Date:
November 18, 2024
For More Information:
Capt. John A. Vik, jvik@lancaster.ne.gov
The Lancaster County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that a mountain lion was sighted in the Bennet, Nebraska, area on November 17, 2024. Home surveillance and game cameras captured photos and video of the mountain lion between 1 a.m. and 3 a.m. in the early morning hours. Based on the times of those sightings, the animal was moving east and away from the city of Bennet. Deputies have been monitoring the area with no additional sightings reported.
Although sightings are rare, mountain lions are present in Nebraska. Mountain lions can travel great distances in search of food. Their diet is typically made up of deer and other small mammals. Lancaster County residents should keep the following mountain lion safety tips in mind:
- Do not leave unattended food outside.
- Do not leave small pets outside alone.
- Keep children close to you. Do not allow children to play along riverbanks, in heavy vegetation, or alone at dawn or dusk.
If you encounter a mountain lion, the goal is to convince it that you are not prey and may be dangerous. Follow these tips:
- Do not approach a mountain lion.
- Do not run from a mountain lion.
- Do not crouch or bend over.
- Do all you can to appear larger.
- Fight back if attacked.
If you would like to report confirmed evidence of a mountain lion on your property or have additional questions, contact our office at (402) 441-6500.
These safety tips and guidance were adapted from material provided by the U.S. National Park Service.
Back to Media List