CHANDLER, Ariz. — The Gila River Police Department is advising residents to be more aware of their surroundings after recent mountain lion sightings in the Wild Horse Pass area.
On Thursday, the police department put out a community notice advising locals that they should be vigilant during outdoor excursions after recent sightings have confirmed the presence of mountain lions in the area.
"Respect the natural habitat of our wildlife neighbors, and strive for harmonious coexistence as we enjoy the beauty of the desert landscape," the police department wrote in a statement.
Mountain lions are known for their cryptic, secretive behavior and can be difficult to track, according to the Arizona Game and Fish Department. The big cats can be quite territorial and will often kill other mountain lions that cross into their territory.
The species tend to populate desert and forested mountains with steep, rocky slopes.
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