Mountain Lion Newport Returns to Orange County

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The mountain lion known as Newport roaming the scenic Santa Ana Mountains.

News Summary

The mountain lion known as Newport has made a notable reappearance in Orange County after being absent for nearly three years. Captured on wildlife cameras, Newport’s return highlights the ongoing interaction between urban environments and local wildlife. Wildlife photographers are monitoring the area to raise awareness about mountain lion behavior and promote coexistence between humans and nature. Newport’s presence plays an essential role in the ecosystem, contributing to the balance of local species.

Santa Ana Mountains, Orange County – A mountain lion known by the nickname “Newport” has made a surprising return to Orange County, after being absent from the area’s wildlife scene for nearly three years. This noteworthy development was confirmed when wildlife cameras captured Newport on May 7, 2025. Features of the footage included the mountain lion rubbing its face on branches while inspecting the camera, indicating behavior that has been previously recorded by wildlife enthusiasts in the region.

Newport had previously been a well-known figure in Orange County’s urban landscape, having been spotted in various locations including an Irvine shopping center, Lake Mission Viejo, and Newport Beach during his last recorded sightings in 2022. His presence generated a mix of intrigue and concern among residents, highlighting the ongoing interaction between urban development and local wildlife.

Mark Girardeau and Rachel Devloud, wildlife photographers and enthusiasts involved in tracking local fauna, have set up approximately 50 wildlife cameras throughout the Santa Ana Mountains. Their primary objective is to monitor and document various species, including mountain lions like Newport, as well as other local wildlife such as deer, raccoons, skunks, opossums, and foxes. The footage collected from these cameras is shared weekly on their Facebook group, “Orange County Outdoors,” allowing the public to become more educated about the local ecosystem.

Girardeau points out that their project began as a hobby motivated by a desire to educate the community about mountain lions and alleviate fears surrounding these animals. This initiative aims to foster a better understanding of mountain lion behavior and to raise awareness about the role these predators play in maintaining ecological balance. Girardeau notes that public misconceptions can significantly impact wildlife management and conservation efforts in the region.

The significance of Newport’s return extends beyond mere curiosity. Mountain lions serve as a crucial part of the local ecosystem, helping regulate deer populations and maintain the health of their environment. By observing their behaviors and interactions in areas adjacent to human habitation, wildlife researchers and enthusiasts hope to gather information that can promote coexistence between humans and wildlife.

Wildlife cameras like those deployed by Girardeau and Devloud not only provide insights into the activities of animals like Newport but also capture a range of other species that inhabit the Santa Ana Mountains. The value of this footage lies not only in its educational potential but also in its ability to raise awareness about the diverse wildlife that exists alongside urban settings in Orange County.

As Newport settles back into his routine in the Santa Ana Mountains, local residents and wildlife could benefit from increased understanding and recognition of the mountain lion’s role in the ecosystem. Though concerns about safety may persist, the insights garnered from ongoing wildlife monitoring can help bridge the gap between humans and the natural world, fostering a community that respects and protects its diverse inhabitants.

In summary, Newport’s re-emergence marks a noteworthy chapter in Orange County’s wildlife narrative. With concerted efforts from wildlife enthusiasts and researchers, there is hope that heightened public awareness will lead to more informed decision-making regarding urban development and animal conservation in the region.