Cougar Safety:
Seeing a cougar while hiking or engaging in any other activity is very unlikely but not impossible; that is why it is essential to know what to do when you do encounter one. Also known as mountain lions or pumas, they are a large cat species. They will usually have a deerlike colour. A male cougar can weigh up to 80 kg, which is no joke when you see one of these while hiking. When you see one of these while walking, maintain constant eye contact. Do not turn your back and slowly back away. Make yourself large and make lots of noise. When cougar attacks, attack back with everything you have: rock, stick, or bear spray. Unlike bears, do not play dead; they will see this as a kill, and unlike the bear, the cougar will see you as part of their diet. Most importantly, avoid seeing them at all, hike in groups and make lots of noise while walking. When camping, store food away from the campsite to prevent them from getting close.
