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Mountain Lion Sightings Reported in Santa Barbara

Mountain Lion Sightings Reported in Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara Independent

May 15, 2026

Original

Well, neighbors, it seems we’ve got some wild company in the 805. According to the *Santa Barbara Independent*, a mountain lion was caught on a residential security camera not once, but twice on the 800 block of Bath Street, right near Mission Creek. If you’ve ever walked that stretch, you know it’s a peaceful, tree-lined area—not exactly what you’d picture as a big cat corridor. But with Mission Creek running through town, it makes sense: these animals are just following the green ribbons that weave through our neighborhoods.

This sighting is a good reminder that we share this beautiful place with more than just humans and dogs. The Santa Barbara foothills and creek beds have always been highways for wildlife, especially as development pushes into their habitats. If you’re out walking near Mission Creek at dawn or dusk, keep an eye out and keep pets close. It’s not a reason to panic—it’s a reason to appreciate the wild edge of our coastal life. Stay curious, stay safe, and maybe double-check that backyard brush pile.

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This summary was written by AI based on the original article from Santa Barbara Independent.

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May 15, 2026

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