A cougar that had been repeatedly spotted near homes in the Young’s Beach area of Lac La Biche County was killed by a licensed hunter late last month after wildlife officers responded to public safety concerns.

Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services first received reports of the cougar on Dec. 28. According to Alberta Public Safety and Emergency Services, the animal had been seen multiple times by several residents and appeared to be settling into the area.

Animal Found Feeding Near Homes

Officials say the cougar showed concerning behaviour, including allegedly stashing a dead deer under the deck of a residence in the subdivision.

Fish and wildlife officers responded and set traps in order to capture the cougar, but it was ultimately killed by a licensed hunter on Dec. 30, confirmed Alberta Public Safety and Emergency Services.

The repeated sightings and their proximity to homes raised public safety concerns, particularly in a residential lake area.

Cougar Attacks Are Rare, but Risk Exists

While cougar attacks on humans in Alberta are rare, they do happen under certain conditions. Most incidents involve adults alone in cougar territory or children, who may be mistaken for prey because of their size.

Cougars are naturally elusive and uncommon in populated areas, which is why sightings in communities often raise concern.

Sightings Increasing Across Alberta

Although many reported cougar sightings later turn out to be other animals such as coyotes, deer, dogs, or even large house cats, confirmed cougar sightings are becoming more common. Cougar sightings have been rising over the last decade due to multiple factors, including increasing numbers of people living in cougar territory, increasing popularity of outdoor recreation in cougar territory, and the growing cougar population as a result of a healthy prey animal population.

Cougars are active year-round and do not hibernate, meaning encounters can happen in any season and at any time of day.

How Residents Can Reduce Risk

Residents in the Lakeland region are reminded to stay wildlife-aware year-round, whether enjoying outdoor recreation or spending time in their own neighbourhoods.

To reduce the risk of attracting cougars to residential properties, Fish & Wildlife officials recommend:

• Never feeding wildlife

• Removing attractants such as bird seed, salt licks, and unsecured garbage

• Closing off open spaces under decks and patios with durable wire mesh

• Avoiding activities that attract deer, which can draw predators

• Keeping outdoor pets and livestock in secure, covered shelters at night

Installing motion-activated security lights may also help deter curious wildlife.

What to Do During a Cougar Encounter

If a person encounters a cougar, avoiding conflict is the priority. If the cougar is close or showing aggressive behaviour, signal that you are not easy prey by making yourself appear larger and speaking loudly.

Backing away slowly while maintaining eye contact is advised. Bear spray can also be an effective deterrent. If an attack occurs, individuals are advised to fight back using whatever means are available.

Anyone who sees a cougar in or near their community is urged to contact their nearest Fish and Wildlife office as soon as possible.

As development and recreation continue to expand into natural habitats, wildlife officials say awareness and proactive prevention remain key to keeping both people and wildlife safe.