Cougar sighting in Highlands

[Karen Story]

A large cougar was seen in someone's yard in the north end of the Highlands at 6 am a few days ago. This cat was also seen in the Forbes Creek area recently, so it appears to be hanging around.

• The cougar’s ability to travel long distances occasionally brings these cats into seemingly inappropriate areas, even places densely settled by humans. Such appearances are almost always brief, with the animal moving along quickly in its search of a suitable permanent home. 
• Small pets and outdoor animals such as chickens may attract cougars.
• Don’t feed wildlife or feral cats. This includes deer, raccoons, and other small mammals. Remember that predators follow prey.
• Close off open spaces under structures. Areas beneath porches and decks can provide shelter for prey animals.
• Feed dogs and cats indoors. If you must feed outside, do so in the morning or midday, and pick up food and water bowls, as well as leftovers and spilled food, well before dark. Pet food and water attract small mammals that, in turn, attract cougars.
• Keep dogs and cats indoors, especially from dusk to dawn.
  
• Use garbage cans with tight-fitting lids. Garbage attracts small mammals that attract cougars.

What to do if you encounter a cougar

There is a lot of good information online, including this brochure from State Fish and Wildlife, about what to do if you encounter a cougar, but here are some tips:

• Always give a cougar or cougar kittens a very wide berth. (Cougar kittens can look similar to domestic cats.)
• If you are with others, stay together in one group.
• Face the cougar. Talk to it firmly and hold your ground .
• Always leave the animal an escape route.
• Move slowly. Running or rapid movements may trigger an attack.
• Try to appear larger than the cougar. If wearing a jacket, hold it open to further increase your apparent size. If you are in a group, stand shoulder-to-shoulder to appear intimidating.
• If the cougar does not leave the area, be more assertive by waving your arms and shouting or making other loud noises.
• If it shows signs of aggression (crouches with ears back, teeth bared, hissing, tail twitching, and hind feet pumping in preparation to jump), shout, wave your arms and throw anything you have available (water bottle, book, backpack) at the animal. Use bear spray at this point.