Mark Ordered Everyone To Leave The Area
The moment Mark released the sheep, it ran straight back into the same desperate circle with the rest of the herd. That was when he turned to the tourists and told them to gather their belongings and head back toward the trailhead immediately. The hikers were not happy. One of them lowered his phone and complained that they had only just arrived.
Mark kept his voice calm but firm. He explained that animals do not behave that way unless they feel threatened. At first, he suspected a large predator, possibly a mountain lion or a bear hidden somewhere nearby. While the hikers grumbled about their ruined outing, Mark unclipped his radio and called Central. He requested a sweep team at High Meadow and reported severe herd distress, possibly caused by an apex predator in the area. Within moments, Central confirmed that Rangers Davis and Miller were on their way.
