Overview
- After hours of searching, a multi-agency team located and tranquilized the mountain lion Tuesday when it was cornered between buildings near California and Octavia streets in Pacific Heights.
- Biologists identified the cat as 157M, a previously tagged male about two years old that was dispersing from its natal range.
- Veterinarians evaluated the lion, fitted a GPS collar, and wildlife officers transported it out of the city for release in the Santa Cruz Mountains, where officials report it is in good health.
- No injuries were reported during the operation, and authorities had advised residents to back away slowly, avoid running, pick up children, and keep dogs leashed.
- The Santa Cruz Puma Project and state wildlife officials will monitor the animal’s movements, with public tracking updates expected on the project’s website in the coming weeks.