Rancho Santa Fe residents report deer killed by animal
RSF residents have reported that some sort of wild animal has attacked two members of a deer family of four in an area just east of Via de Fortuna. The remains of each deer was found about a week apart. It is not known at this time if the animal that attacked the deer was a mountain lion, bobcat or coyote. However, RSF Patrol Chief Matt Wellhouser does advise residents to take precautions.
Although historically sightings are rare, there are several types of wild animals that live in Rancho Santa Fe. Mountain lions’ main food source is deer and coyotes. Eliminating plant species that attract deer helps discourage mountain lions from coming into the area.
Mountain lions are most active at night, as well as dusk and dawn. Do not leave children outside unattended; don’t leave pet food or food that may attract animals outside. Do not leave animals outside unattended. Horses should be kept in stalls in the barn. Be careful when walking/ jogging at dusk and dawn time periods.
If you have any questions please call the Dept. of Fish and Game at 858-467-4201 or the RSF Patrol at 858-756-4372. For more tips and information, visit
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