May 21, 2019

Written By:  Officer Mark Ereth

On 05/21/19 at approximately 8:30 am, the Sunriver Police Department received a phone call regarding an unconfirmed cougar sighting. It was reported the animal was seen crossing the roadway near the intersection of South Century Drive and Abbot Drive. Sunriver Officers, Deschutes County Sheriff’s Deputies and the Department of Fish and Wildlife all responded to investigate the sighting. No additional sightings have been reported. It has been determined there is no safety risk to the public at this time.

If you see a cougar, you are encouraged to report the sighting to your local Law Enforcement Agency, Oregon State Police or Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

If you should encounter a cougar, follow the ODFW guidelines below, for your safety and the safety of the animal.

STOP – Never approach a cougar at any time.

STAY CALM – Face the cougar and do not turn your back towards it. Do not run. Running encourages it   to chase you.

APPEAR LARGE – Make yourself look large. Do not bend over or crouch down. Raise your hands. Hold your coat open. Hold small children.

FIGHT BACK – Fight back if attacked.

MAKE NOISE – Make noise while hiking to reduce the chance of surprising a cougar.

KEEP CHILDREN CLOSE – Always keep children close by and in sight.

AVOID WALKING ALONE