LEWISTON, Idaho — A mountain lion that wandered onto the campus of Lewis-Clark State College in Lewiston was euthanized by Idaho Fish and Game officials in the early morning hours of February 3, following a two-day effort to monitor and address the animal’s presence within city limits, authorities confirmed.
The mountain lion was first spotted within Lewiston’s city limits on February 1. Surveillance footage captured the animal near the ticket booth at the college’s baseball field during the early morning hours of that day, raising immediate concern among campus and public safety officials. The sighting prompted a coordinated response between Lewiston Police and Idaho Fish and Game (IDFG).
Officials Cite Public Safety in Euthanasia Decision
Two days after the initial sighting, Lewiston Police and IDFG officers located the lion approximately one mile from where it was first spotted. Officials determined that chemical immobilization — typically used to safely capture and relocate wildlife — was not a viable option, as the animal had moved into an area deemed unsafe for that procedure.
IDFG subsequently made the decision to humanely euthanize the animal, emphasizing that the choice was driven entirely by public safety concerns. The agency acknowledged in a news release that euthanasia is never an easy decision, but stressed that the protection of Lewiston residents and the college community was the primary consideration.
Regional wildlife manager Jana Ashling noted that while mountain lion sightings in urban areas are uncommon, they are not without precedent. “While sightings of mountain lions in urban areas are rare, it’s not unheard of,” Ashling said, according to IDFG.
The situation drew attention to the ongoing reality that Idaho’s wild landscapes — including the canyons and ridgelines surrounding the Snake and Clearwater rivers near Lewiston — bring residents into proximity with large predators. The Lewis-Clark Valley’s geography, with steep terrain running directly into residential and educational areas, makes wildlife encounters a periodic concern for local authorities.
Idaho Fish and Game Issues Public Safety Guidance
In the wake of the incident, IDFG released a series of safety recommendations for residents who may encounter a mountain lion in or near their neighborhoods.
Officials advised that anyone who comes across a mountain lion should never run, as fleeing can trigger the animal’s predatory instincts. Instead, residents should face the lion, attempt to appear as large as possible, and yell loudly. High-pitched screams should be avoided, as they can mimic the sounds of prey. Maintaining eye contact and slowly backing away are also key steps recommended by IDFG.
For those who spend time outdoors — particularly at night — officials recommended carrying bear spray, a noise-making device such as an air horn, and a bright flashlight. Runners and cyclists were advised to avoid wearing headphones so they can remain alert to their surroundings.
Pet owners were also urged to take precautions. IDFG describes mountain lions as “opportunistic predators” that may view domestic animals as prey. Residents should keep pets on a leash, accompany them outdoors when possible, and avoid leaving pet food outside. Small livestock, including chickens, should be secured in a locked enclosure overnight.
Homeowners can further reduce the risk of attracting mountain lions to their property by securing household garbage, blocking access beneath patios or decks, and installing motion-sensor lighting. Residents were also reminded never to feed deer or elk, as those animals are preferred prey for mountain lions and can draw predators into residential areas.
All mountain lion sightings or encounters in the region should be reported to IDFG’s Clearwater Regional Office at (208) 799-5010.
What Comes Next
Idaho Fish and Game has not indicated any planned changes to wildlife management protocols in the Lewiston area following the incident. However, officials are encouraging residents near Lewis-Clark State College and surrounding neighborhoods to remain vigilant and report any future sightings promptly. The agency’s guidance underscores the importance of community awareness in managing the balance between public safety and Idaho’s abundant wildlife population. Residents seeking additional information on mountain lion safety can contact the IDFG Clearwater Regional Office directly.