Pocatello police issued a public safety alert Thursday morning after a mountain lion was spotted near the Latter-day Saints temple and Kenneth Place.
Officers were patrolling the area, and Idaho Fish and Game had been notified. Police had not located the animal as of 10:20 a.m. Thursday.
Residents were urged not to approach the mountain lion and to report any sighting immediately to the Pocatello Police Department. People near the temple were advised to keep pets indoors or under supervision and bring pet food inside.
Idaho Fish and Game said mountain lions are most active around dawn, dusk and overnight. The agency advised people not to run if they encounter one. Instead, people should stand their ground, appear as large as possible, speak firmly and back away slowly while facing the animal. Small children should be picked up, and anyone attacked should fight back.
Drought and limited natural food have pushed wildlife into East Idaho neighborhoods, according to the provided safety information.