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No lack of wildlife in Black Hills

The chance for wildlife sightings is high among the reasons travelers come to the Black Hills, and for residents of the region, it’s a wonderful byproduct of living here. Understanding wildlife makes the Black Hills experience even more pleasurable.

The basic tenet that people should remember when encountering wildlife is to respect the animal’s space and study its behavior.

Having respect for animals doesn’t mean fearing them. Most animals in South Dakota are fairly approachable, with the possible exception of mountain lions. Across the West, mountain lion sightings are getting a fair amount of publicity and people want to know what to do. The state department of Game, Fish and Parks has provided these tips:

• Make yourself appear larger by raising your arms or opening your jacket.

• Stay calm. Talk calmly yet firmly to it and move slowly without turning your back.

• If a lion behaves aggressively, throw whatever you can find without crouching or turning your back. The idea is to convince the animal that you are not prey and may be a danger to it.

• If possible, go to higher ground — once again, without turning your back — for a strategic advantage.

• If a lion attacks you, fight back with rocks, sticks, caps, jacks, jackets, tools or other items at the ready. Remain standing or try to get back up.

Brochures are available at GF&P offices, which have additional information about mountain lions in the Black Hills, precautions you can take and how to report a sighting or attack.

To report a sighting or attack, call the Rapid City office of the Division of Wildlife at 394-2391. For after-hours emergencies, call the local sheriff’s office or State Radio communications, 394-2221 or 224-4212.

Published Online: March 13th, 2007