PORTLAND, Ore. ( KOIN ) — Multiple people have reported cougar sightings in a residential area of Silverton in recent days, the Silverton Police Department warns.
“We have received several reports of a cougar in the S. Water Street area near Olson Street and Pioneer Drive,” the Silverton Police Department announced on social media. “Cougars primarily prey on deer and elk and are most active at dawn and dusk. They are normally elusive and wary of people, so it is rare to see one.”
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The sightings occurred close to Silver Creek, about 10 miles downstream from Silver Falls State Park. Glimpsing a cougar in this area is not a “cause for alarm, especially if the cougar leaves the area” Silverton PD said. However, authorities have provided a list of safety tips.
Safety tips for cougars:
- Do not feed any wildlife including deer. By attracting other wildlife, you may attract a cougar. Keep bird feeder areas clean.
- Feed pets indoors and do not leave food out for feral or wild animals.
- Walk pets during the day and keep them on a leash. Keep pets under your control when in parks or other natural areas.
- Be sure to use lights and make your presence known to wildlife at night. If letting pets outside at night, stay outside with them and limit their time outside.
- Use animal-proof garbage cans and do not leave garbage outside unsecured.
- Remove heavy brush from near the house and play areas, install motion-activated light outdoors along walkways and driveways.
- If you have a garden or keep livestock, deer-proof your garden and yard with nets, lights, fencing. Fence and shelter livestock. Move them to sheds or barns at night.
- Learn your neighborhood. Be aware of any wildlife corridors or places where deer or elk concentrate.
- If you encounter a cougar, stay calm and back away while facing it. Give the cougar a way to escape.
- Raise your voice and speak firmly.
- Maintain direct eye contact.
- Pick up children but do so without bending down or turning your back on the cougar.
- Back away slowly.
- If the cougar displays aggressive behavior or does not leave, raise your arms to make yourself look larger and clap your hands.
- In the unlikely event of an attack, fight back with rocks, sticks, bear or pepper spray, tools or any items available.