How to Scare Cougars Off

Cougars, or mountain lions, are large cats that live across the Western Hemisphere in Canada, the U.S., Mexico and South America. It is the largest cat species found in North America. Cougars travel alone, and can grow up to 180 lbs. The cat has strong jaws and will hold prey down with its claws while killing it with a powerful bite. Cougars rarely attack humans in the wild, but if you are traveling to an area with a large cougar population, it is important to research cougar safety ahead of time.

Instructions

    • 1

      Store food where cougars and other wild animals cannot access them to avoid a confrontation with a cougar all together. Cougars shy, so taking precautions to avoid cougars can be effective. Do not leave small children or pets unattended, and make lots of noise when hiking to avoid surprising a cougar.

    • 2

      Stay calm if you encounter a cougar. Do not run, since the cat's instinct is to chase prey. Stand still and avoid making eye contact with the cat. If there are children with you, pick them up since cougars tend to target small prey.

    • 3

      Raise your arms above your head to make yourself seem larger. Cougars tend to attack smaller prey. Again, it is important to avoid eye contact with cougars since the animal perceives that as a threat.

    • 4

      Back away slowly, never turning your back on the cat. Never run.

    • 5

      Yell or throw rocks at the cat if it is acting aggressively. You want to seem like a potential danger for the animal, and not a potential meal.