A reported cougar sighting in the Muskeg Creek Trail System has trail users wary, and rightly so. However, we should not forget that the presence of cougars is an indication of a thriving ecosystem.
Yes, there is a fine line between a healthy ecosystem and an environment where dangerous human/wildlife interactions occur. But residents’ primary concern shouldn’t be a cougar randomly strolling into their yard one day. First, we should be wary of deer congregating on our property.
Because cougars feed primarily on deer, deterring deer may be the first step in keeping cougars away. Alberta ESRD advises that if you have salt licks or birdfeeders that spill seed near your home, you may want to relocate them, as deer tend to view them as tasty diet supplements.
When deer numbers are up, cougar numbers are often up. One possible cougar sighting does not prove our cougar numbers are soaring, but it is noteworthy that several Athabasca gardeners have reported more issues with deer this year than any other in recent memory.
Hunting season is just around the corner; it will help curb the ungulate population and deter predators. Until then, take care by walking in groups and keeping kids close.
Most of all, remember that cougar-human conflicts remain rare. Take reasonable precautions when in the woods, but resist paranoia.
