GUSTINE — A mountain lion spotted in a tree along Cottonwood Creek in north Merced on April 3 was safely tranquilized and relocated by state wildlife officials, but biologists say the animal is likely not the same lion recorded on home security cameras in Gustine late last month.
Merced police said a resident reported the sighting around midday, prompting officers to contact the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. CDFW personnel responded, tranquilized the lion and secured it for transport back to its natural mountain habitat.
“We appreciate the quick response and coordination to ensure the safety of both the community and the animal,” Merced police said in a statement…