Possible Cougar Scat Found in Village Southwest

There has been some scat found in a yard of a Stirling residence which appears that it could be that of a Cougar.  The residence is located in the 4 hundred block of 5 Avenue.

This is the same area where there was a previous sighting last year.

Please use Caution and be Aware

Information from Alberta Parks would indicate that the probability of an attack is actually very low.

Here are some tips and information from Alberta Parks:

Although the chance of seeing a cougar in Stirling is small:

• Encourage children to play in supervised groups away from dense vegetation.  Children should return inside before dusk.
• Do not let dogs and cats roam freely. Free-roaming pets may attract and be attacked by cougars. Dogs and cats are easy prey for many predators.  Bring pets in at night.
• Do not leave pet food and garbage outside. Always use wildlife-proof garbage bins.
• Avoid areas where carcasses have been left. Be aware that cougars often cover their food with plant debris.

If You Meet A Cougar

• DO NOT RUN. Back away slowly, always looking them in the eye. Sudden movement or flight may trigger an instinctive attack.
• Never turn your back on a cougar – face the cat and remain upright
• Do all you can to make yourself look bigger. Hold a coat, branch or any other object over your head, or wave it around. Don’t crouch down or try to hide
• Yell, throw rocks, speak loudly and firmly. Convince the cougar that you are a threat, not prey
• Always give the cougar an avenue of escape
• Pick children up off the ground immediately. Children frighten easily and their rapid movements may trigger an attack
• If the cat attacks FIGHT BACK. Many people have survived cougar attacks by fighting back with anything they have, including rocks, sticks, fists, fishing poles, cameras etc.

Cougars are a vital part of Canada’s diverse wildlife. Seeing a cougar should be an exciting, rewarding experience, with both you and the cougar coming away unharmed. Prevention is better than confrontation, so prepare yourself before venturing into their habitat.