Mountain Lion Spotted in San Francisco Outer Sunset
Residents should prioritize safety protocols after a mountain lion was sighted in the Outer Sunset neighborhood.
Updated on Sept. 18, 2026 in Wildlife
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San Francisco officials issued an emergency alert after a mountain lion was confirmed in the Outer Sunset area near 44th Avenue and Ulloa Street on Friday morning. This follows a previous confirmed sighting in the Panhandle neighborhood less than two weeks prior.
Why it matters
The recent activity near residential zones poses a potential safety risk, requiring families to adjust outdoor logistics and follow specific defensive measures. Residents should remain vigilant during morning and evening hours when wildlife activity is typically heightened.
The incident occurred near 44th Avenue and Ulloa Street, following a separate sighting in the Panhandle at Fell and Baker streets. San Francisco Animal Care and Control is tracking the events and can be reached at 415-554-9400.
The players
San Francisco Animal Care and Control
The local agency responsible for managing urban wildlife encounters and public safety alerts.
The details
If you encounter a mountain lion, you are instructed to avoid running, which can trigger an instinctual chase response. Instead, back away slowly while keeping your eyes on the animal, and if it approaches, make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms, shouting, and throwing nearby objects. Always keep pets on leashes while walking in the neighborhood.
Timeline
• September 2026: A mountain lion was spotted in the Panhandle area.
• September 18, 2026: A mountain lion was reported in the Outer Sunset neighborhood.
The Home Front
Urban wildlife sightings in densely populated areas like San Francisco often signal shifts in local migration patterns. This event highlights the ongoing importance of adhering to municipal wildlife safety protocols to protect family members and pets.
Keep dogs leashed while walking in the Outer Sunset and monitor your backyard for unexpected wildlife activity. For immediate life-safety emergencies, call 911, or contact San Francisco Animal Care and Control at 415-554-9400 for non-emergency reports.
The takeaway
Maintaining awareness of your surroundings is the most effective way to stay safe during an urban wildlife encounter. Always follow official guidance by backing away slowly and never turning your back on the animal.
Further reading
For more on managing interactions with local animals, visit Wildlife.
Live Poll
Do you feel safe living in your neighborhood given the recent increase in local wildlife sightings?
