New Mexico Department of Wildlife Removes Aggressive Cougar Near Cloudcroft

The cougar approached people aggressively, according to the agency. Eyewitnesses confirm the lion was shot and killed.

A mountain lion seen repeatedly in the vicinity of Osha Trail near Cloudcroft was shot and killed around 2 p.m. Sunday, July 26th, as confirmed by eyewitnesses and nearby village residents.

New Mexico Department of Wildlife Communications Director Darren Vaughan later told the Reader in response to an e-mail inquiry, “There were two separate incidents in which the cougar approached people in an aggressive manner. In the first incident, warning shots were fired to scare the cougar.”

“During the second incident, the cougar again aggressively approached a Department conservation officer. Department of Wildlife Conservation officers found no wrongdoing in the cougar’s removal,” he said.

Predator Country

Vaughan also added the following wildlife information:

“If you live in or visit predator country, follow these precautions to reduce your risk:

Avoid outdoor activities such as running or hiking at or around dawn and dusk, when predators are most active.

Supervise children when they are outdoors and keep them close when hiking.

Eliminate hiding places for predators. Remove enough vegetation to detect large predators in your yard and make it difficult for them to hide or approach unseen.

Enclose open spaces below porches and decks.

Install outside lighting (preferably motion sensors). Illuminate walking areas.

Avoid non-native shrubs and plants. These can attract prey that predators may follow.

A leash will help protect your pet and usually is required by law. Pets are easy prey. Bring pets inside at night. If they must stay outside, confine them in a kennel with a secure roof.

Do not feed pets outside. Pet food can attract predators and prey.

Store all garbage securely. Most predators will not cause damage and will move on if abundant food cannot be found.

When a predator detects your presence, it usually will leave the area before you know it’s there. Attacks are rare, and each situation is different and will depend on the predator, the terrain and how the people/person react(s). Though steadfast rules don’t often apply, these suggestions will reduce the risk of attack:

If you see a predator that hasn’t seen you, remain calm and leave the area. Talk loudly as you move away to make your presence known.

Stop and back away slowly while facing the predator if this can be done safely. Avoid direct eye contact. Do not run; this may stimulate the predator’s instinct to chase and attack. Allow the predator as much room as possible for it to leave.

Appear as large as possible. Raise your arms. If wearing a jacket, open it and raise it above your head. If with small children, pick them up to protect them and prevent panic and running.

Never approach a wild animal. Predators are unpredictable but will avoid confrontation unless forced.

Watch for young. Coming between a female and her young is dangerous. If a predator’s young are nearby, move away while remaining alert for other young and adults in the area.

Convince the predator you are not prey. If a predator approaches or behaves aggressively, arm yourself with a large stick, throw rocks or sticks and speak loudly and firmly. Convince the predator that you are dominant and a danger to it.

Fight back if a predator attacks. Fight aggressively and use any weapon available, such as rocks and sticks, a backpack, hat or jacket or your bare hands if necessary. “

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