Cougar sighting in Jacksonville near the Rich Gulch and Britt Gardens area | Local

JACKSONVILLE, Ore. – A hiker spotted a full-grown cougar near a trail in the Rich Gulch and Britt Gardens area Tuesday morning.

Jacksonville Police said the hiker was near the Panorama View Point area around 9:16 a.m. when they saw the animal. An officer searched the area but couldn’t find the cougar.

Police are asking people using local hiking trails to stay alert and use caution. If you see a cougar, stay calm and don’t run.

You should maintain eye contact and slowly back away. Make yourself look bigger by raising your arms or opening a jacket.

Keep children and pets close to you. Make loud noises and speak firmly.

Cougars are a natural part of Oregon’s wildlife. Sightings can happen in rural and wooded areas around Jacksonville.

Report any aggressive behavior or immediate public safety concerns to ECSO 911 dispatch or law enforcement. Jacksonville Police will continue to monitor the area for any additional signs of the animal.