During late spring and summer, one to two year old cougar become independent of their mothers. While attempting to find a home range, these young cats often roam widely in search of an unoccupied territory. This is when they are most likely to come into contact with people.
This time of year means more people in cougar territory, and more wandering young cats. If you plan to visit cougar country, please familiarize yourself with these tips before hitting the trails. Cougar are predators at the top of the food chain, and their actions are often unpredictable. Following these general guidelines will reduce the risk of cougar conflict.
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
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
Hiking in Cougar Country
- Hike in groups of two or more, and make enough noise to avoid surprising a cougar
- Be extremely alert when biking in cougar country – a human on a bike looks like a deer running to a big cat. You can’t hear anything coming if you are wearing ear buds with music playing
- Carry a sturdy walking stick and pepper spray to be used as a weapon if necessary
- Watch for cougar tracks and signs
- Check with the local park office about wildlife sightings before your trip
- If you stumble upon cougar kittens, leave the area immediately as the female will defend her young
Hiking with Children
- Keep children close and under control
- Cougar seem to be attracted to children, due to their high pitched voices, small size and erratic movements which are all similar to small prey animals.
- Talk to children and teach them what to do if they encounter a cougar. Encourage them to play in groups, and always supervise children playing outdoors in cougar country
- A dog is an effective early warning system, as they see, smell and hear a cougar sooner than people
- Pick children up off the ground immediately. Children frighten easily and their rapid movements may trigger an attack
More information on our Safety in Cougar Country page