Do you ever get that distinct feeling that you’re not alone—that maybe someone or something is watching you? If you’re hiking in mountain-lion country, it’s very possible that you are being watched.
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Usually, we see proof that a mountain lion is watching hikers when the hikers themselves realize the animal is there and capture a photo or video. But one fascinating video from Casey Anderson shows a different perspective. As Anderson records from a good distance away, a young mountain lion decides to investigate some hikers; it stalks them for a while, getting as close as 10 feet away. The craziest part is that the hikers have absolutely no idea the cougar is even there.
[RELATED: ‘Who Needs Coffee When There’s a Mountain Lion Staring at You?’ (Video)]
“Mountain lions spend their lives trying not to be seen. They don’t want to be understood. [. . .] They want to watch,” Anderson wrote in an Instagram post sharing the video. “A lot of people think mountain lions are rare. They’re not. They’re just exceptional at concealment. If you’ve walked a single mile in lion country, chances are one has seen you. Not out of malice. Not out of hunger. Just curiosity, and because that’s what they do.”
When hiking in mountain-lion country, consider carrying a deterrent spray (often marketed as bear spray). “Bear spray” is effective against mountain lions, too.
Watch as a mountain lion stalks some hikers without them ever knowing:
Header stock image by Vicki Jauron, Babylon and Beyond Photography/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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