Bobcat Sighted in Crescenta Valley

A La Crescenta family found a bobcat in their backyard Friday morning and now officials are asking residents to keep pets inside. 

The bobcat visited the neighborhood above La Crescenta Avenue, near Pineridge Drive, about 9 a.m., according to resident Jennifer O'Connor, who spotted the animal next to her backyard patio furniture. 

It's best to leave the animal alone, said Sheriff's Sgt. Debra Herman of the .  

"I would stay away, keep your pets inside. They'll go away, just try to keep your pets inside," Herman said. 

California Department of Fish & Game would not be called to the area unless the animal presents a danger or is sick, Herman said. 

"Just stay away from them. Let them be wild. We've encroached in their territory. This is their environment so we have to respect that to some degree," Herman said.