Park ranger shoots lion after it attacks dog

A mountain lion was shot and killed by a Glacier National Park ranger after the lion attacked a dog in the Park Headquarters employee housing area at about 5 p.m. on Saturday, March 21.

The incident occurred when a Park employee returned to her residence and her two dogs unexpectedly raced out of her vehicle. She followed the dogs and found one in a fight with a mountain lion.

Nearby residents ran to offer assistance, and a shovel was unsuccessfully used to separate the lion and dog. The animals tumbled over an embankment near the Flathead River, and the lion pinned the dog near the river’s edge.

Another resident arrived with bear spray and began throwing rocks and logs.

A Park ranger arrived at the scene and shot the lion. The dog then jumped into the river but was brought back to shore and transported to a veterinarian.

After many stitches and wound care, the dog is anticipated to fully recover. A necropsy will be performed on the lion to determine its health and age.

A mountain lion was hazed earlier this winter in the Park Headquarters area, and warning signs had been posted. Park rangers believe additional lions may be in the area.