Mountain Lion Put Down After Unusual Killing Of A Dog In Steamboat Springs
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colo. (CBS4) - Colorado wildlife officers killed an aggressive mountain lion in Steamboat Springs Monday morning.
A spokesperson with the Department of Parks and Wildlife told CBS4's Kelly Werthmann that in his 36 years with the department he's never had to deal with a mountain lion killing a dog. But that's what happened after a mountain lion made it's den under a house.
Officials said the mountain lion was a young male and likely an inexperienced hunter. The homeowner called authorities when they spotted the large animal near their home and realized it killed their family dog.
The mountain lion also startled the family's 14-year-old daughter before anyone knew what had happened.
Officers attempted to tranquilize the mountain lion Monday morning, but because it showed no fear for humans and stayed too close to homes, officials said they had to put the lion down.
Wildlife officials say dogs typically are not mountain lion prey, but the case serves as a reminder to keep a close eye on pets when outdoors, especially those who live in the foothills and mountains.