Young apex predator that killed goat and roamed yards is euthanized, OR cops say

A young apex predator was euthanized after killing a goat and roaming backyards, Oregon deputies said.

On Sept. 1, Benton County deputies responded to an area outside the city limits of Corvallis after getting reports of a mountain lion killing livestock, according to a Facebook post by the sheriff’s office.

The mountain lion had killed a goat the night before and came back to continue to feed on it, deputies said.

The animal was also seen in backyards during the day and had “no fear of people,” deputies said.

Deputies deemed it a threat to humans, and it was euthanized, the sheriff’s office said.

“Cougars are an important part of Oregon’s ecosystem. Unfortunately, when they prey on livestock in a residential or agricultural area and become a threat to human safety, intervention becomes necessary,” Undersheriff Don Rogers said in the post. “The decision to euthanize wildlife is the last resort, but it is our responsibility to protect people and their animals.”

Cougars need large ranges to roam, and young mountain lions face challenges in establishing their own territories, so they often follow prey like deer and turkeys that have shown an increased presence in residential areas, deputies said.

Corvallis is about a 90-mile drive southwest from Portland.

What to know about mountain lions

Mountain lions are solitary, elusive animals, according to the National Park Service. The chances of seeing a mountain lion are slim, but people can encounter them.

“Typically, mountain lion sightings occur from a distance and usually around dawn or dusk,” park rangers said. “However, lions are unpredictable and can be dangerous.”

If you see a mountain lion, experts advise you:

• Don’t approach it: Mountain lions usually want to avoid confrontation. 
• Don’t run: It could stimulate their chase instincts.
• Stand tall: Face the mountain lion and make eye contact.
• Keep children close: If a mountain lion is approaching, pick up small children so they don’t panic or run.
• Don’t crouch or bend over: A mountain lion could perceive you as prey.
• Fight back: If a mountain lion attacks, use rocks, sticks, jackets or anything you can get your hands on to fight back.  

This story was originally published September 3, 2025 at 2:33 PM with the headline "Young apex predator that killed goat and roamed yards is euthanized, OR cops say."