Cougar sighting at Elkwater prompts urge for public caution

By KELLEN TANIGUCHI on March 23, 2021.

ktaniguchi@medicinehatnews.com@@kellentaniguchi

There was a cougar sighting at Elkwater Townsite last Monday, according to Zach Doan, conservation officer with the environmental enforcement branch, Medicine Hat district.

“We have a healthy population of cougars and we have sightings every year in Elkwater, especially in the winter when it’s a lot quieter over here,” he said. “This cougar seems to be comfortable around people, but doesn’t seem to be aggressive.”

Doan says the cougar was laying down behind a cabin and the owners observed it for a while. Eventually, RCMP were notified and they were able to chase the animal off site. Doan added there have not been any cougar sighting reports since.

Cautious should be exercised in the area, says Doan, who encourages people to call 403-893-4357 if they spot a cougar. That line will eventually put them in touch with a conservation officer.

“We want people to be aware when they’re in the area … we encourage people to carry bear spray, watch for cougar tracks and to not wear headphones, especially when alone.”

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