A cougar has created quite a stir in Uintah County after multiple sightings near homes. The sightings have been shared around social media this week with many asking if wildlife officials have been notified. DWR Conservation Outreach Manager Tonya Kieffer-Selby confirms that the Division of Wildlife Resources is aware of the issue and is monitoring the situation for further developments. She also encourages the public to become educated with helpful information available on
wildawareutah.org
. Cougars live all across Utah and typically weigh between 90 and 200 pounds. They are solitary animals that hunt at dawn and dusk. They primarily hunt deer and can be found anywhere deer are found. Cougars are a protected wildlife species in Utah and a permit is required to hunt them. If you’re concerned about a cougar coming around your property, remove wildlife attractants from your property including pet food, water sources, bird feeders, and fallen fruit. If your property attracts deer then it also could attract a cougar. If you encounter a cougar, stop. Never run from or approach a cougar. Maintain eye contact. Pick up children and pets or keep them close. Stand up tall and talk firmly in a loud voice as you back away slowly. Fight back if you are attacked and protect your head and neck! For more tips, visit
wildawareutah.org
.
