Not a lot of attacks around here, thank goodness. Or almost anywhere, for that matter. Last time I looked, the total documented death toll from mountain lions in California, since 1890, is six. They normally stick to their turf, and humans normally stick to theirs. But in the SF Bay Area, I can see mountain lion turf from my driveway. They've been known to wander into town now and then.

Hiking the trails in the hills, you pay close attention. Like most big cats, they are opportunistic hunters, and are attracted by the appearance of helplessness or cluelessness. Most attacks I've heard of came from behind on someone busy with something, including the recent death here in 2004. The nature of some of the attacks seems to indicate that certain lions, like African lions, will develop the habit of attacking humans. This is not normal behavior.

From the Sierra Club:

Experts suggest the following rules:

1. Keep children close. On the trail, do not let youngsters stray too far ahead or lag behind. If you see fresh cougar sign in the area, pick children up and carry them.

2. Be mindful of pets. Cougars are highly evolved predators at the top of the food chain. Pets, therefore, are easy prey. If you camp with pets keep them close. A pet that strays from your tentsite may lead cougars back to you.

3. Stay clear. Mountain lions are not naturally aggressive toward humans, but a cornered animal may attack in fear. Give it a path to escape. And never, ever approach a feeding cougar.

4. Do not run. Flight may trigger a predatory response. Stay calm, maintain eye contact and, if possible, slowly back away.

5. Try to appear larger. Do not crouch or stoop even to pick up children. Rather, spread your arms or open your coat to exaggerate your size.

6. Fight back if attacked. If the animal approaches you or seems aggressive, wave your arms, yell, throw rocks - anything to scare it off. If it attacks, do not play dead, but fight back savagely. Many people have successfully fought off attacking mountain lions.