Mountain lions & elk — what's really out there

The Large Carnivore Response Team reviews reports across the state. The team formed in 1996 (it was first called the Mountain Lion Response Team). It has documented more than 100 confirmed cases since 1994, and fewer than 1% of reports have enough evidence to confirm — most reports turn out to be bobcats, large dogs, house cats, coyotes, or deer seen in poor light. A few females have been detected over the years, but there is no evidence of reproduction in Missouri.

What the law says

Mountain lions are protected, but Missouri law lets a person kill one that is attacking or killing livestock or domestic animals, or threatening human safety. If that happens, the animal must be reported and surrendered to MDC.

If you think you've seen one

Report sightings — ideally with photos or video — to mountain.lion@mdc.mo.gov or to your local law enforcement, and give the animal space.

If you ever meet one face to face

• Don't run — running can trigger a chase.
• Make yourself look bigger: stand tall, raise your arms or open your jacket.
• Keep eye contact, and don't crouch or turn your back.
• Back away slowly, and keep children and pets close to you.
• In the very unlikely event of an attack, fight back.

There are about 325 free-ranging elk in the Elk Restoration Zone — Carter, Reynolds, and Shannon counties. Peck Ranch Conservation Area and the Current River area are prime viewing spots, and the fall rut — September through October — is the magic season, when bulls bugle and gather.

Watch from a distance, and never feed them

Watch elk from your vehicle and give them 100 yards or more — even more during the fall rut (September–October) or when calves are present. Never feed them.