At a Glance
- A mountain lion cub was found in the middle of Hillcrest Parkway in Castaic.
- The cub, 4 to 5 months old and weighing 16.6 pounds, was treated and released.
- State officials advised drivers to keep a safe distance and report sightings.
- Why it matters: The incident highlights the growing overlap between human activity and wildlife habitats.
Amanda S. Bennett reports for News Of Los Angeles at 6 a.m. on Jan. 21, 2026 that a baby mountain lion was spotted in the middle of the road in Castaic. The young cat was recovered, treated, and released back into the wild, raising concerns about human-wildlife interactions in the area.
The Encounter
On Wednesday morning, the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) observed a mountain lion cub lying near the centerline of Hillcrest Parkway near Olympic Street. When officials first approached, the animal darted into a nearby backyard. It was later captured by state biologists.
Timeline of Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Jan. 19, 2026 | Cub spotted on Hillcrest Parkway |
| Jan. 20, 2026 | Biologists capture the cub |
| Jan. 21, 2026 | Veterinary assessment and release |
Veterinary Assessment
The veterinarian examined the cub and found a small laceration on one paw and noted that it was slightly underweight. Radiographs showed no broken bones, swelling, or other obvious issues. The cub was estimated to be 4 to 5 months old and weighed 16.6 pounds.
Recovery and Release
After treatment, state officials confirmed that the cub was healthy enough for release. Biologists are working to return the animal to its natural habitat. Residents are encouraged to use the department’s Wildlife Incident Report if they encounter adult mountain lions, aiding reunification efforts.
What Residents Should Do
- Drive slowly and keep a safe distance from the area where the cub was found.
- Report sightings of adult mountain lions via the Wildlife Incident Report.
- Avoid approaching any mountain lion.
Mountain Lion Facts in California
- Estimated population: 4,000 to 6,000.
- More than half of the state is considered prime habitat.
- The department receives hundreds of sighting reports each year, but few pose an imminent threat to public safety.
- Attacks on humans are extremely rare and lions typically avoid people.
Quick Reference: What to Do During an Encounter
- Do not hike, bike, or jog alone.
- Avoid trails during dawn, dusk, and night.
- Keep a close watch on small children.
- Never approach a mountain lion; give it an escape route.
- Do not run; stay calm and face the animal.
- Make noise and try to appear larger.
- If attacked, fight back with any available object.
- Call 911 immediately if a lion attacks.
- Report unusual behavior to your local CDFW office.
Key Takeaways
- The mountain lion cub was found, treated, and released, illustrating the challenges of wildlife management in populated areas.
- State officials urge caution for drivers and residents, emphasizing the importance of reporting sightings.
- California’s mountain lion population remains substantial, but human-wildlife conflicts are rare when proper precautions are taken.
By staying informed and following the department’s guidelines, residents can coexist safely with these powerful predators.
