LA PLATA COUNTY, CO — A Colorado family was startled after security cameras captured multiple mountain lions prowling around their home in chilling late-night footage.

The big cats were seen wandering through the backyard, inspecting the property before eventually moving on. Officials with Colorado Parks and Wildlife say such encounters are not uncommon in the region, where mountain lions often roam near residential areas in search of food.

Authorities are reminding residents to stay alert, secure pets, and avoid leaving food outside that could attract predators. While mountain lion sightings are a regular part of life in rural Colorado, experts stress that people should give the animals space and report unusual or aggressive behavior.