Santa Monica Police advised residents near 14th Street and Montana Avenue to remain indoors Friday as they investigated reports of a mountain lion sighting.
Parts of 14th Street were closed to traffic for more than an hour though nearby businesses including Peets Coffee and Whole Foods Market remained open for business.
Shortly before noon, the animal was discovered in the backyard of a home on the 700 black of 14th Street.
The area is less than three blocks from Lincoln Middle School.
In a community advisory posted two hours earlier, The SMPD stressed that no injuries have been reported and urged anyone who sees the animal to immediately call 911. Residents were also urged keep pets inside, and avoid approaching or attempting to photograph the animal if it is seen.
Mountain lions are common in the Santa Monica Mountains, but it is rare to find them roaming in densely populated areas — especially during daylight hours.
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife advises to remain calm if you encounter a mountain lion and do not run or turn your back. It is instead recommended that you speak loudly, wave your arms and lift small children off the ground.
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