Community Safety Announcement: Cougar Alert Update

As fall sets in, we need to be aware of cougars coming nearer to our homes. There have been recent reports during the past month of a cougar in the lower Hilt area, and another one near the Mt. Ashland ski road.

The summer's seasonal availability of cougar food (deer, etc.) lessened their interest in preying upon domestic animals or local livestock. Now that deer, elk and other wildlife populations are relocating and becoming less available, cougars will again be seeking food sources nearer to the human population. This means our pets, livestock, and our children may be at risk.

Last winter and spring, there were six known incidents of domestic pet killings attributable to cougars. Other pets and livestock were stalked and threatened. Most of these incidents were within close range of district residences, two occurring on home porches.

We caution all residents to maintain vigilance when outdoors. Young children in our district remain at serious risk, even those just "right outside," and should be supervised when outdoors at all times.

For details on local cougar attacks, information on cougar behavior, and safety tips for cougar encounters, see our community page.