BONNERS FERRY — A mountain lion was spotted lounging in the backyard of a residence near the Bonners Ferry City Pool on Helena Street, according to a press release from the Bonners Ferry Police Department.  

Officers were notified Tuesday, May 5, that a mountain line had been seen at the home at about 3:30 a.m. According to the report, officers were told the large cat showed no fear and after a couple minutes it leisurely walked from the yard. 

The cat was reported as last being seen crossing Helena Street and disappearing into a nearby carport. 

Sightings of mountain lions, bear and moose are not uncommon within city limits and unless imminent threat is present, city police said residents should leave the animals alone. 

“We ask that when seen, mountain lions, bear and moose be reported to the Boundary County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center,” Bonners Ferry Police Chief Willie Cowell said in the statement. 

BFPD department urged vigilance in both the city and in Boundary County when it comes to overprotective or potentially aggressive large wild animals. 

The specific neighborhood where this cat was seen is an area that over the past several years has reported numerous confirmed mountain lion sightings. 

“Be mindful of unattended children, household pets and neighborhood strolls at any time of the day or night,” Cowell said in the statement. “Situational awareness is a lifesaver.” 

Bonners Ferry Police officials' advice is simple. 

“If you happen to encounter an attentive, or aggressive wild animal, if unarmed, it is best to walk to safety and not run, so as not to incite a predator’s natural instinct to pursue potential prey.”

Idaho Department of Fish and Game was notified about the sighting. 

The Boundary County Sheriff’s Dispatch Center phone number is 208-267-3151, ext. 0.