UPDATE: Mountain lion found and tranquilized in backyard
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IDAHO FALLS — A young male mountain lion was tranquilized by Idaho Fish and Game officers in the backyard of an Idaho Falls home near the airport this afternoon.
Officers discovered the mountain lion shortly after noon hiding in some bushes. Dogs followed the scent, forced the mountain lion into a tree and then it was darted.
The animal was then caged and it will be released in the mountains, according to local Fish and Game spokesman Gregg Losinski.
IDFG had been searching for the large cat since Friday morning when Idaho Falls city officials and Fish and Game officers received several tips from people who had seen the animal.
As a result, Idaho Falls dispatch issued a code red call to residents on the west side of Idaho Falls at approximately 6:30 a.m. warning of the possible sighting and urging residents to be cautious.
Losinski says despite how it sounds — mountain lions on the edges of town are not uncommon.
“Cats on the edge of town are far more common than people realize,” Losinski says. “The chance of interaction with humans is slim, but small pets can be a target.”
If residents ever see the mountain lion, they should remain at a safe distance and should not approach it. They are instructed to call dispatch at (208) 529-1200 or Idaho Department of Fish and Game, Upper Snake Regional Office at (208) 525-7290.