Banff National Park officials are asking that special caution be used around all trails, facilities and campgrounds within the Tunnel Mountain area and along the Tunnel Mountain bench, after after a 'cougar frequenting the area.' was spotted.
Banff National Park officials are asking that special caution be used around all trails, facilities and campgrounds within the Tunnel Mountain area and along the Tunnel Mountain bench, after after a 'bold cougar frequenting the area.' was spotted. (Graphic credit to Banff National Park)The warning was posted on May 15 on the Parks Canada website. Officials are advising hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, that to avoid an encounter with a cougar, or other dangerous wildlife, you should be prepared to travel in groups keep everyone together and be especially cautious when travelling during dawn and dusk, when wildlife is most active.
Other tips also include travelling slowly if you are cycling or jogging, not wearing earbuds and making noise to alert a cougar or other potentially dangerous wildlife to your presence.
"Carry bear spray in an easily accessible location and know how to use it. Keep your dog on a leash at all times and walk your dog during daylight hours if possible."
Other tips include:
• Leave the area if you see or smell a dead animal.
• Never approach, entice or feed wildlife.
If You See a Cougar, do not approach the animal.
"Face the cougar, and retreat slowly – do not run or play dead. Try to appear bigger by holding your arms or an object above your head."
It's also advised to immediately pick up small children; and be aggressive. Shout, wave a stick or throw rocks to deter an attack.
"Report your sighting, immediately, to Banff 24/7 Emergency Dispatch at 403-762-1470."
According to the province, cougar attacks on humans are very rare.
"The majority of those that do occur happen with adults who are in cougar territory alone, or with children. Children are small, have high-pitched voices and are more likely to make quick, erratic movements. These qualities mimic those of smaller mammals, so a cougar may mistake a child for a prey animal," the province stated.
The warning is in place until further notice.
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