A tragic incident occurred on Thursday in the mountains of northern Colorado, where a woman lost her life in a suspected mountain lion attack while hiking alone. This marks the first fatal attack by a mountain lion in Colorado in over 25 years, as reported by authorities.
Wildlife officers swiftly responded to the scene, locating two mountain lions in the vicinity, which they subsequently euthanized, according to Kara Van Hoose of Colorado Parks and Wildlife. The attack took place in the mountainous region south of Glen Haven, about 7 miles northeast of Estes Park, an area that serves as a gateway to the eastern entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park.
The harrowing encounter unfolded shortly before noon when two hikers came across a mountain lion near the woman’s body. In an effort to provide assistance, the hikers attempted to scare the animal away by throwing rocks. Among them was a physician who tried to revive the victim but unfortunately found no pulse, confirming the tragic outcome.
Further details regarding the woman’s injuries and the precise cause of her death remain unreleased as authorities continue their investigation. Van Hoose noted that the search for additional mountain lions in the area is ongoing, and whether any found lions will be euthanized will depend on the circumstances.
Although mountain lion sightings are not uncommon in this forested area, there have not been any recent documented attacks on humans. Van Hoose explained that this time of year typically sees an increase in mountain lion sightings, especially in Larimer County where the habitat is suitable for these animals. The trails in the region are remote and can pose various challenges, including rocky terrain and significant elevation changes.
Historically, mountain lion attacks are rare in Colorado, with the last fatal incident occurring in 1999 when a young child was killed. This incident serves as a tragic reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in natural settings. Despite the risks, Colorado is home to an estimated 3,800-4,400 mountain lions, which are classified as big game animals and can be hunted under state regulations.
This event underscores the need for continued awareness and caution among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in mountainous regions, as the majestic but powerful mountain lions inhabit these areas.