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VERMILION RESERVATION— Bois Forte conservation officers are alerting residents here that a cougar has been repeatedly spotted near the Red Pine Center, with the latest sighting coming in the …
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VERMILION RESERVATION— Bois Forte conservation officers are alerting residents here that a cougar has been repeatedly spotted near the Red Pine Center, with the latest sighting coming in the early morning hours of Sunday, Nov. 14.
In a press release, officers indicated they are hoping to trap the animal for relocation.
Meanwhile, officers are advising residents in the area to keep a close eye on children playing outside and urged parents to consider walking with their children if they’re headed to a friend’s house or anywhere else. Cougars have been known to attack, and occasionally kill, people.
Officers are also recommending that residents keep a close eye on pets, which can also be vulnerable to cougar attacks. Pets should also be kept inside or leashed so they aren’t caught in traps set for the cougar. Any pets trapped will be transported to the nearest animal shelter and residents will need to pay a fee to recover their pet.
Conservation officers are offering the following tips to stay safe should you encounter a cougar.
• Stay calm and stand your ground, but leave the animal a way to escape.
• Maintain direct eye contact.
• Pick up children, but do so without bending down or turning your back on the cougar.
• Back away slowly.
• Do not run. Running triggers a chase response in cougars, which could lead to an attack.
• Raise your voice and speak firmly.
• In the unlikely event of an attack, fight back with rocks, sticks, bear or pepper spray or anything else that might be effective.