Child bitten by mountain lion during family hike on popular Olympic National Park trail - uncommon occurrence
In a rare and concerning incident, a four-year-old child was attacked by a mountain lion while hiking in Olympic National Park on Sunday, July 20, around 3pm. The attack took place near the Victoria Overlook area on Hurricane Ridge, a popular trail known for its family-friendly short hikes.
The child was bitten by the cougar during the family hike, prompting an immediate response from park rangers. The mountain lion was located and euthanized the following morning to prevent further threats.
This unfortunate event underscores the importance of safety measures when hiking in areas where mountain lions, or cougars, may be present. Experts from the Mountain Lion Foundation and state wildlife agencies recommend several precautions to minimize risk and respond appropriately in an encounter.
First and foremost, it's advisable to hike in groups rather than alone. Leaving headphones behind and staying alert to your surroundings is also crucial. Making noise while hiking, such as talking loudly or clapping, helps let wildlife know you are coming.
If you encounter a mountain lion, it's essential not to run. Mountain lions are triggered to chase by fleeing prey. Instead, maintain eye contact with the lion, make yourself appear larger by raising your arms or opening your jacket, and speak loudly and firmly. Stand tall, wave your arms, and, if safe, throw stones or branches toward the animal without turning your back.
Slowly back away while continuing to face the animal. After safely distancing yourself, report any sightings to park authorities.
While mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, they do happen. In March 2024, two brothers were hunting in a remote area of California when a mountain lion pounced, killing one.
In the wake of the Olympic National Park incident, the victim was airlifted by a LifeFlight helicopter to a Level 1 Trauma Center. The child is currently undergoing treatment for their injuries in a Seattle hospital.
It's important to remain vigilant any time you are hiking or recreating in mountain lion country, even in National Parks. Remember, the safety of you and your family is paramount.
For more information on what to do if you meet a mountain lion on the trail, please refer to our article. Stay safe, and enjoy the trails!
[1] Mountain Lion Foundation: https://mountainlion.org/ [2] National Park Service: https://www.nps.gov/olym/index.htm [3] Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: https://wdfw.wa.gov/ [4] LifeFlight Network: https://www.lifeflight.org/
While outdoor-living and hiking in mountain lion territory can offer an enriching home-and-garden experience, it's crucial to prioritize safety measures, such as hiking in groups, staying alert, and making noise. In case of an encounter, avoid running and instead maintain eye contact, make yourself appear larger, and speak loudly and firmly. Safety precautions are essential when engaging in sports like hunting in mountain lion country, as rare but fatal attacks can occur, like the unfortunate incident in California in March 2024.
