Re: Co-existence with cougars possible (Gazette, April 24)
Darn, people were believing eco-alarmists who say deer are in cities because there is no more forest, and Raincoast Conservation’s claim that cougars are an endangered species because there are few deer left. You ruin that fantasy by saying there is forest nearby, with cougars and deer.
I do challenge the notion that cougars are not a threat to humans. Remember that a cross-country skier was killed near Banff, and a bicyclist attacked up-Island – both of those attacked were adults. The latter survived only because help arrived. Cases typically involve a cougar having difficulty catching normal prey, due to a handicap.
Conservation officer Peter Pauwels should amplify advice on dealing with an unexpected cougar encounter, such as standing tall. Note, too, that occasionally cougars get confused and come well into the city.
Keith Sketchley
Saanich
