Richard Coss, a psychology professor and expert on the evolution of predator–prey relationships at the University of California, Davis, studied the behavior of 185 people who were attacked by mountain lions (aka pumas or cougars) between 18 in the U.S. Not necessarily, says a new study, which warns that standing still may up one's risk of becoming mountain lion chow. Instead, stand and face the animal.'īut is it really safer to stay put than flee? And anyone who doesn't need only consult the Web site of the California Department of Fish and Game for the best tack to take if he or she happens upon a big cat while communing with nature: 'Do not run from a lion,' the site advises, warning that 'running may stimulate a mountain lion's instinct to chase.
Veteran campers and hikers know the drill, especially those in areas where mountain lions roam.
