BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A recent sighting of a partially eaten deer in the Barkley neighborhood had some worried a cougar was stalking their trails, but a game warden says that is most likely not the case.
Based on photos of the deer found dead on the side of Klipsun Trail, Department of Fish and Wildlife Game Warden Dave Jones says this is much more likely to be the work of coyotes.
Jones says cougars don’t leave their prey out, but usually bury it in the woods, while coyotes are more likely to eat what they could and run, leaving it in the open.
Regardless of the animal though, Jones says it’s not something to get overly worried about since these animals normally don’t want anything to do with us, even kids.
Instead, he advises people to always be aware of their surroundings, whether you’re out in the woods or around people.
Also, to keep your pets close and on a leash because pets are the most in danger by cougars or coyotes.