HUMBOLDT — A cougar has been sighted south of Humboldt, according to the City of Humboldt.
"There has been a confirmed sighting of a cougar along the Wildlife Trail near the Vintage Club," the city said on its Facebook page. "Please use caution, be aware of your surroundings and keep pets on a leash if you are walking on the trail or in the area."
According to the provincial environment ministry, attacks on humans from cougars are rare. Their prey is deer. However, they are known to prey on livestock and pets. It will also feed on elk, rabbits, beaver, porcupines, raccoons and grouse.
If you run into a cougar, the ministry recommends:
- Not to run from it. Stand up, make yourself look big, shout loudly and throw something to distract the animal. Back away to a safe distance and maintain eye contact.
- If it attacks, fight back with any weapon you can. Do not play dead. After it leaves, keep watching for it until you reach safety.
- Children could be viewed as a target due to their size. If a cougar is encountered, pick up your children immediately.
