We had a huge Puma problem in Arizona (Sedona area, Lake Montezuma) back in the early 90's when I lived there. Granted it was very rual but every morning there would be large tracks on the deck around my house and once I had one right outside the patio door scream at me when I drew back the curtains! The only thing one could do was to pay attention, arm yourself for defence against an attack, and try not to make yourself a target. We would make a ton of noise when leaving the house or out on a hike. I'd say they were curious of human activity but with all the ranches around they were more interested in the calves and smaller animals. Long story long, I've always prided myself in being an active participant in the food chain but this was the first time that I wasn't always necessarily at the top!