RMOW has issued an alert after a cougar exhibited stalking behaviour towards a hiker in Whistler. The incident happened at Skywalk South Trail, above the Alpine neighbourhood.
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According to the information received by COS, a cougar approached a hiker from behind crouching low and exhibiting stalking behavior. The hiker hazed the cougar by throwing stones as it approached to approximately 20 feet. The cougar was not initially scared, but eventually backed off.
To protect public safety, part of the trail system above the Alpine neighbourhood will be closed for one month:
No View
Rainbow-Flank North
19 Mile Creek
Howler
Rick’s Roast
Cat Scratch Fever
Green Monster
Skywalk South
Jaws
All other trails are open, though RMOW recommends that hikers should proceed with caution. Consider carrying bear spray when using the alpine trails, as it is an effective defensive tool for wildlife encounters. Details and trail closure can be found on this map: whistler.ca/WildlifeAlert
Please report all sightings of cougars to COS at: 1-877-952-7277