Hikers in Texas came across a mountain lion, and experts say this is a relatively rare encounter to have in Big Bend National Park. The hikers spotted the animal up on a rocky hillside staring at them. They captured footage of the mountain lion briefly before it ran away.
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“A Big Bend hike turned unforgettable,” wrote chron_com, a Texas-based news account. “Three hikers spotted a mountain lion on the Boot Canyon Trail just before sunrise, and caught it on video. The big cat watched them from a rock before disappearing into the brush. Experts say Big Bend averages about 150 sightings a year, but encounters like this remain rare.”
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When hiking or recreating in mountain-lion country, it’s wise to carry bear spray, which is also effective against mountain lions. If you see a mountain lion, do not run. Make noise, appear as large as possible, and back away slowly. If it attacks, fight back.
Check out the surprise these hikers found on a trail in Big Bend National Park:
Header stock image of Big Bend National Park by Naren Morum / 500px/Getty Images
Best Bear (and Mountain Lion) Sprays
- SABRE Frontiersman MAX Bear and Mountain Lion Attack Deterrent
- Counter Assault Bear Deterrant Spray
- UDAP Pepper Power Bear Spray
- Mace Brand Bear Spray
- UDAP Griz Guard Bear Pepper Spray
Learn more about bear sprays here.
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