A mountain lion is spotted in Parsons. The mountain lion was seen on a security video on Friday. The location was along the northeast edge of town near Labette Creek.
The Parsons Police Department was made aware of this sighting and contacted the Kansas Department of Wildlife. The KDWP says while this mountain lion is likely no longer in the city, residents should be alert. If the mountain lion is spotted in town, residents should contact PPD at (620)421-7060, so that local KDWP officials may be dispatched. The KDWP is also investigating the area. Mountain lion attacks on people are extremely rare, but residents should be aware of basic precautions.
In the event of an encounter, do not approach the animal and do not run away. If children or pets are present, gather them or pick them up, and slowly back away. If a mountain lion still approaches, look as big as possible and speak in a loud, firm voice. Since 2007, mountain lions have been confirmed more than 60 times in Kansas, including most recently in Allen County last week. So far, all have been moving across the state. Like most mountain lions, this one will naturally move on to other areas on its own.
