MOUNTAIN LION SIGHTINGS IN SHEEP CREEK – Several residents in Bear Creek have spotted a large male cougar in the meadow in front of Newcomer’s cabin on three separate days this past week.  Residents in Sheep Creek have also reported similar activity. Two contractors working for Neal Lummus also reported sightings in the same spot. The men are nervous about people coming in contact with this fairly bold lion and have asked Sheep Creek residents and visitors to be aware and report additional activity. As the weather starts to turn colder we will continue to have increased bear and mountain lion activity along with the normal coyotes, etc. Do not let you pets outside alone or run loose. If you do have an encounter:

• When you walk or hike make plenty of noise to reduce your chances of surprising a lion. A sturdy walking stick is a good idea; it can be used to ward off a lion. Make sure children are close to you and within your sight at all times. Talk with children about lions and teach them what to do if they meet one.
• Do not approach a lion, especially one that is feeding or with kittens. Most mountain lions will try to avoid a confrontation. Give them a way to escape.
• Stay calm when you come upon a lion. Talk calmly yet firmly to it. Move slowly.
• Stop or back away slowly, if you can do it safely. Running may stimulate a lion’s instinct to chase and attack. Face the lion and stand upright.
• Do all you can to appear larger. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you’re wearing one. If you have small children with you, protect them by picking them up so they won’t panic and run.
• If the lion behaves aggressively, throw stones, branches or whatever you can get your hands on without crouching down or turning your back. Wave your arms slowly and speak firmly. What you want to do is convince the lion you are not prey and that you may in fact be a danger to the lion.
• Fight back if a lion attacks you. Lions have been driven away by prey that fights back. People have fought back with rocks, sticks, caps or jackets, garden tools and their bare hands successfully. Remain standing or try to get back up

(http://wildlife.state.co.us/WildlifeSpecies/LivingWithWildlife/Mammals/Pages/LionCountry1.aspx