Mountain lion sighting near Dos Pueblos High School

Wildlife experts in Santa Barbara County confirm a second mountain lion sighting in as many days in Goleta.

The cougar was spotted about 2:30 Thursday afternoon crossing Del Norte near Glenn Annie, not far from Dos Pueblos High School.

A staffer with the Animal Rescue Team in Santa Ynez confirms numerous calls came in to the center’s hotline Thursday afternoon.

Wildlife experts believe it’s the same mountain lion spotted Wednesday night near the same area and expect to see more lions and bear sightings because of the dry conditions.

Ranchers and large property owners in rural areas are urged to keep their water guzzlers full, to help dissuade lions and bears from venturing into populated areas.

If you do come across either type of animal, make yourself appear as large as possible, for example, lift your jacket up over your shoulders.

Experts say there have only been 19 confirmed deaths from mountain lions since 1890, nationwide.

Officials with the Santa Barbara Unified School District were also notified.