Firefighters have rescued a mountain lion stuck in a tree in the California desert.

A homeowner called the authorities after discovering the cougar was near his home located close to the San Bernardino mountains.

The big cat was stuck on a branch about 50ft, or 15m, above ground.

State wildlife officials had to tranquilise the animals before firefighters brought it back onto land using a rescue harness.

Wildlife experts also examined the mountain lion for possible injuries or health conditions before releasing it back into its habitat.

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Rick Fischer, a warden for California’s Department of Fish and Wildlife, told Sky News it is not uncommon for mountain lions, or other big cats, to wander outside of their habitat.

He also said it is rare for mountain lions to attack humans, but they are known to prey on pets and livestock.