Photo: Colin Langford / 500px / Getty Images
A mountain lion attacked a four-year-old child on a popular trail in Olympic National Park, Washington. The incident occurred over the weekend, leaving the child injured but in stable condition. Park officials have temporarily closed the trail as a precautionary measure and to investigate the attack further.
The child was with family members when the mountain lion approached and bit them. Immediate medical attention was provided, and the child was taken to a nearby hospital for further treatment. Park rangers are working to locate the mountain lion involved in the attack. They have issued a warning to visitors to remain vigilant and report any sightings of mountain lions.
Mountain lions, also known as cougars, are native to the area and are generally elusive, avoiding human contact. However, encounters can occur, especially in areas where human activity overlaps with wildlife habitats. Park officials remind visitors to keep children close, avoid hiking alone, and make noise to alert wildlife of their presence.