Signage has been posted along a local pathway following a reported cougar sighting in Okotoks.

The sighting occurred along the Heritage Pathway in the Lineham area.

Fish & Wildlife have been contacted, and the Town of Okotoks has sent out a post across their social media pages warning of the sighting.

Just a week prior, signage was posted in the Sheep River Cove area following the discovery of evidence suggesting cougar activity.

Again, they're asking residents to exercise caution or avoid the area, and to keep pets on leashes.

The town is also cautioning residents against feeding local wildlife, as this may attract predators.

Anyone who sees a cougar or bear is asked to contact the town's parks department at (403) 938-8958 and the province's Report-A-Poacher line at 1 (800) 642-3800.

Alberta Fish and Wildlife Enforcement issued the following statement on the proper course of action to take during an encounter with an aggressive cougar:

"If you see a cougar in the distance, do not run or turn your back. If the cougar appears to be unaware of your presence, gather children and pets in close, slowly and cautiously back away and leave the area. If a cougar is hissing and snarling or staring intently and tracking your movements, do not run, and do not play dead. Make yourself look big and speak loudly. If the cougar makes contact, fight back and don't give up. Use all means at your disposal."

 

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