Last year I was hunting my favorite tree way down by the river. Now on occasion either going in before dawn or going out after dark I have walked right into a skunk at 2 steps and a badger at about 3 steps. Enough to make you jump but no big deal. Where I hunt there are many turkeys and they roost in trees right by my stand. Had them roost ten feet above me at times. Well on this particular morning I was up in my stand long before dawn as usual half awake waiting for light. I heard right behind me limbs breaking and being thrashed and then the most terrifying "scream" in the tree behind me. First time I was ever scared in the woods. I told my brother who farms the place about it and he goes "oh I forgot to tell you the hired men saw mountain lion tracks there last week, I was supposed to tell you to bring a gun just in case". Thanks a lot! I think that it was a mountain lion and he had turkey for breakfast. I cannot legally take a gun while bowhunting here, but wish I could. Speaking of which if it is illegal but in your own best interest, would you bring a pistol??