Written with files from Ally Paige
Back on August 6, the Eston Riverside Regional Park Authority shared the following news.
"We have been informed of a potential cougar sighting early this morning in the coulee between Court E & F. Please be aware of where your children & pets are & avoid going into treed areas."
The sighting was never confirmed, but if you do have a run-in with these evasive and secretive animals, wildlife allocation specialist for Saskatchewan's Ministry of Environment Travis Williams notes it is important to stay alert.
“Be aware of your surroundings, make noise while you're hiking to help avoid surprise encounters and if you do happen to encounter a cougar, don't run away,” he stated. “Make yourself look large, make loud noises and back away from the animal.”
Since the Ministry doesn't actively monitor cougar populations like other wildlife, Williams tried to narrow down the demographics for Saskatchewan.
“We don't have a firm count and then we know they exist throughout the province at relatively low concentrations through much of the province, but the Cypress Hills does tend to be a place that there are more cougars than most,” he elaborated.
Cougars are a part of the natural landscape in Saskatchewan, and Cypress Hills is one place they roam frequently. While there have been no reports of aggressive cougar encounters, Williams encouraged vigilance and responsible outdoor behaviour using the above tips.
If an individual does experience an aggressive encounter with cougars or wildlife, they can call the Turn In Poachers and Polluters line at 1-800-667-7561 or #5555 from a SaskTel cell phone.
Tue, May 14, 7:00 PM
