There is a cougar in the region and it has been exhibiting some strange and potentially harmful behaviour toward humans, according to the Kootenay Columbia Trail Society website.
As of July 14 society officials have been made aware of a cougar exhibiting uncharacteristic aggressive stalking behaviour towards two adult mountain bikers on the Dewdney trail.
“At this time we do not recommend using the Dewdney trail (the Old Cascade Hwy provides an alternate route to Rossland for Seven Summits riders), and suggest that any trail users in this area (including the Seven Summits and Sheep Creek trails) travel together in groups,” read a notice on the site.
The website will be providing updates on regarding the issue and will be re-evaluating the situation this week.
If you encounter a cougar:
- Stay calm and keep the cougar in view.
- Pick up children immediately. Back away slowly, ensuring that the animal has a clear avenue of escape.
- Make yourself look as large as possible. Never run or turn your back on a cougar. If the cat shows intense interest or follows you, respond aggressively.
- Maintain eye contact with the cat, show your teeth and make loud noises. Arm yourself with rocks or sticks as weapons. Crouch down as little as possible when picking things up off the ground. If the cougar attacks, fight back.
- Keep the animal in front of you at all times. Convince the cougar you are a threat, not prey. Use anything you can as a weapon. Focus your attack on the cougar’s face and eyes
Source: BC Parks