A Boise police bicycle officer saw a mountain lion at about 9:30 a.m. Friday, according to a release from the police department.

The cat was spotted beyond 31st and Pleasanton streets in a remote gravel area. The animal fled the area, and officers were unable to locate it. Police are consulting with Idaho Fish & Game officials.

The Friday morning sighting was the fifth since Wednesday. The others were:

• Thurday at 6:50 a.m.: Greenbelt east of Veterans Memorial Parkway (north side of the river and walking west).

• Thursday afternoon: Greenbelt near Hilton Garden Inn (south side of the river and moving east)

• Wednesday at 9 a.m. / 10 a.m.: Greenbelt near Glenwood Bridge

If you see a cougar, DO NOT RUN. Here's what sheriff's officials say you should do:

• STOP. Back away slowly if you can do so safely. Running may stimulate a mountain lion’s instinct to chase and attack. Face the mountain lion, stand upright and maintain eye contact.

• DO NOT APPROACH A MOUNTAIN LION, especially one that is feeding or with kittens. Most mountain lions will try to avoid a confrontation. Give them a way to escape.

• STAY CALM. Talk to it in a calm, yet firm voice.

• DO ALL YOU CAN TO APPEAR LARGER. Raise your arms. Open your jacket if you’re wearing one. If you have small children with you, protect them by picking them up so they won’t panic and run.