People in Lethbridge are still being advised to practice caution, following reports of a cougar sighting in the city.
On June 18, the Lethbridge Police Service (LPS) received reports of the feline in the Indian Battle Heights area.
READ MORE: Cougar sighting reported in the Indian Battle Heights subdivision
On June 21, the LPS received another report of a sighting in the coulees along the southwest side of Whoop-Up Drive.
The LPS says Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement are working to find the animal. On June 25, the agency said it is still assessing and monitoring the situation, as the location of the cougar remains unknown.
Fish and Wildlife has provided some tips to residents, noting that although cougar encounters are rare, it is important to know the right precautions if you encounter one.
Some tips include:
- Staying calm: Never run away or show fear by screaming.
- Keep distance: If you spot a cougar in the distance, gather children and pets, and slowly back away without turning your back.
- Stay alert: If the cougar hisses, snarls or tracks your movements, do not run or play dead. Make yourself look big, speak loudly and be ready to fight back if necessary.
- Avoid attracting wildlife: Never feed any wildlife to prevent attracting cougars and other predators to your neighbourhood.
Fish and Wildlife can be contacted in Lethbridge at 403-381-5266. More information about cougars is available through the Government of Alberta website.
READ MORE: Residents asked to remain cautious following cougar sighted in the coulees in Indian Battle Park