Local authorities in Jefferson County are warning the public to protect pets following two confirmed mountain lion attacks that took place over the past month, along with another suspected attack.

Per a February 4 report from the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, the confirmed attacks occurred within roughly six miles from each other near South Deer Creek Road and Pleasant Park Road – a rural area east of Conifer. Information about how the pets fared was not released. The sheriff’s office also released an image of a mountain lion that was captured in Ken Caryl, noting that it was seen in a culvert behind the home of a local resident, guarding a deer carcass at the time.

The sheriff’s office provided the following tips for keeping pets safe:

• Supervise pets closely when outdoors, especially at dawn, dusk, and nighttime
• Keep pets leashed and stay alert while on trails
• Install outdoor lighting to help discourage wildlife from approaching unnoticed
• Bring pets indoors whenever possible

While this situation is ongoing in Jefferson County, the same advice applies to many parts of Colorado, as the state’s mountain lion population is widespread.

General awareness is key, and be warned that if prey populations – such as deer – are nearby, predator populations are likely lurking, too.

STAY INFORMED: Get free Colorado news with our daily newsletter (Click here)