“If you see a Cougar, that’s the last thing you will see”
So, what to do if you see a cougar in the wild?
Something I’ve heard quite frequently since coming to Canada. Sometimes it’s a joke, but don’t be fooled.
Cougars are not going to let you rub their belly. After noticing a couple of sightings in southern BC recently, mainly Whistler and Grouse Mountain, I thought it was time to finally find out some information about what to do if/when you meet a cougar.
As a relative newbie to Canada, I have never experienced an encounter with a cougar. Most of the time we concentrate on bears – but let’s check out what you should do if you meet this big cat.
What to do if you see a cougar
- Stay calm
- Keep the cougar in view
- Pick up children immediately
- Back away slowly
- Give the cougar a clear way to escape
- Make yourself look as big as possible
- Never run or turn your back on a cougar
- Sudden movement or noise can provoke an attack
What to do if a cougar follows you
- Be aggressive
- Maintain eye contact
- Show your teeth
- Make loud noises
- Arm yourself with rocks or sticks
If a cougar attacks
- Fight back
- Act like a threat and not prey
- Use anything you can as a weapon
- Attack the cougar’s face and eyes
NO BIG DEAL! Stay safe! 🙂
Thanks to VanCity Buzz for this advice!
Check out also:
10 animals you will find in Canada
