10/04/2025
A Yosemite hiker was followed by two mountain lions, an encounter that initially sparked fear but revealed a heartbreaking truth. Trail camera footage showed the big cats trailing the man, causing rangers to rush to his camp.
But the lions were not hunting. Scientists identified the pair as grieving parents who had recently lost their own cub. They now believe the mountain lions were following the man because they saw him as a helpless cub and felt an instinct to protect him. The lions' calm demeanor, lounging on a rock face instead of hiding, confirmed their compassionate intent. This surreal moment is a powerful example of how complex and emotional wildlife behavior can be.
