Two mountain lion sightings in Burbank prompt police alert

Hillside residents in Burbank have been put on notice after two mountain lion sightings in as many days this week.

A mountain lion was spotted roaming in the Brace Park area late Wednesday and early Thursday, authorities said, prompting an alert from Burbank police to keep an eye on pets and small children.

The large cat was seen wandering near Scott Road and Lamer Street about 9 p.m. Wednesday and about 7:30 a.m. Thursday, police Sgt. John Dilibert told the Burbank Leader.

When police officers arrived on the scene to advise residents to keep children and animals inside, “one of our guys actually saw it,” Dilibert said.

“What people have to remember is that because of the drought, we have lack of water, and animals that are normally up in the hills come down for water and food,” he said.

Burbank is no stranger to mountain lion sightings.

In January, a mountain lion was spotted jumping over a backyard fence in the 1000 block of Hamline Place, presumably after sipping water from a pool. Several other sightings were reported late last year, including a lion dragging a deer carcass up a driveway.

Police advised residents to avoid leaving water and food dishes for pets outside so as not to attract mountain lions and other wildlife.

Mountain lions are most active at dawn, dusk and at night. If someone comes across a lion, they should try to make themselves appear bigger, make noise and throw rocks. If attacked, fight back, authorities said.

Nicole Charky is a Times Community News staff writer.