A Community Event in Honor of Endangered Species Day! As a result, the number of cougars killed has returned to pre-Measure 18 levels. Copyright 2023 Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife. Oregon News; 2, possibly 3 cougars reportedly sighted in western Lane County, sheriff says . . Note:Complaints and sightings are not one and the same. While in parts of the East forests and white-tailed deer populations have rebounded, the return of cougar populations remains unlikely due to a variety of conflicts stemming from human modification of the area. Do you need this information in an alternative format or language? HVKo@-aqmK%YrH $)$-. During these 43-years, 7,468 cougars(4)were reported killed. Proactive management of cougars may include intensive, administrative removal of cougars in targeted areas where zone specific criteria have been met.. A screen grab of the city cougar, bear and deer carcass map. Of this, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) claim that 71,997 square miles, or 75 percent of the state, is suitable cougar habitat. Cougar sightings and encounters are rare, according to the agency, but sightings have increased. Besides SOU, cougar sightings were also reported on the Bellview School and old Lincoln School campuses. Its been several years since he had to put up a cougar sighted sign anywhere in Astoria. Their primarily food source is deer, but they will also consume elk, raccoons, bighorn sheep, and other mammals and birds. (800) 720-6339. You can check the statutes directly at a state-managed website:https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/Pages/ORS.aspxThese statutes are searchable. Nonetheless, officials in one state park are concerned about the safety of their visitors. Pick up children, but do so without bending down or turning your back on the cougar. Cougars cannot roar, but purr or chirp instead. According to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, this was among several. Cougars are the second largest cat in North America. info@mountainlion.org. They are curious what they will discover. Technical Review of Draft 2005 Oregon Cougar Management Plan, (310). We won't share it with anyone else. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Create a password that only you will remember. Oregon Wild does its part to support cougar populations by fighting to protect the wilderness, forests, and water that cougars rely on. Interstate (Lake and Klamath Counties): Remove 50 cougars annually to improve mule deer populations ZgHo4d49-h|xU&E& s!.E Wf+K"wPp phy>dCgTdYk*+-R4 Ken Nelson, the citys public works superintendent and a lifelong hunter, can count on a hand and a half the number of times hes seen a cougar, even as hes roamed the woods around Tillamook or in eastern Washington and the Cascades. Cougar awareness. Their management plan is fundamentally flawed because: Today, ODFWs estimate of 6,600 cougars in Oregon would indicate a cougar density roughly 2.5 times that of neighboring Washington and is widely believed by biologists to be overstated. Caitlin Fowlkes / Ashland Daily Tidings, SOU president gets feedback on realignment plan, Oregon will begin processing 2022 state income tax returns Jan. 23, Man sentenced in connection with beating death, Man admits to beating girlfriend's father to death, Police ID actor's son in suspected heroin death, an officer did shoot at a cougar near the Hannon Library. 'D )8'x 1Zd>Z)izF6V>'1D%b}wN/J):m(g86C~LK9Cg(fh=DZ(Hd@"iB}:jSE*2G% zG\1D5!nD8)}Gl 5S r".0)AYdgX';%:.t8+{`X7X5F6/Fgt42:{Bg*I*]bLnY;WTw;F7%u[W hl, endstream endobj 324 0 obj <>stream `V@ The bounty continued for 44 years and was discontinued in 1961 by the State of Oregon for a lack of cougars only 28 cougar carcasses were turned in that year. 541.344.0675 | Eugene office Fence and shelter livestock. Most years these spaces remain empty, but state wildlife managers say cougar populations appear to be increasing elsewhere along the Oregon Coast, raising questions about what is and what could become cougar country. Within the U.S. cougars only exist in large enough numbers to maintain viable breeding populations in the western states. Season and area limits on hunting were removed, the price of cougar tags dropped from $50 to $10, and tag sales increased from 937 in 1997 to over 34,000 in 2003. (2009). Cougars also have very long tails, which make up a third to half of their total body length. ASTORIA, Ore. (AP) Yellow signs at trailheads in Ecola and Fort Stevens state parks feature a drawing of a cougar and a blank space to write the date whenever the animal is spotted. Ten years later, despite larger than ever mortalities caused by ODFWs Post-Measure 18 sport hunting policies, the Department ramped the population estimate up to 5,000 cougars. Running triggers a chase response in cougars, which could lead to an attack. Cougars typically hunt between dusk and dawn. Klamath Falls man sentenced to 23 years for assault, facing additional rape, sexual assault charges, Shes not going to die in vain: Mom, family seek answers from child welfare agency, Criminal investigation launched into death of 14-year-old Fallon Murdock, Local nurse scheduled for settlement hearings next week, Paranormal Cirque opens Thursday in Klamath Falls. Contact 503-947-6042 orclick here. Maser, C., & Rohweder, R. S. (1983). Cougars can leap as far as 20 feet and can kill their prey with a single bite to the neck. Hunting Cougar These cats do not chase their prey, but stealthily stalk and ambush it, commonly leaping onto their prey's back and lethally biting it in the neck. What are the cougar removal quotas and goals for the 2016-19 cougar target areas? Cougars are hunted in Oregon on a quota basis. In the map for 2006 to 2016, the dots form thick black clusters in the south, especially around the Alsea management area near Newport where biologists plan to begin to collar and tag cougars this fall. Second, ODFW is basing its current actions to aggressively reduce Oregons cougar population on a crude computer model which does not accurately reflect the complexity of what is happening on the ground. OregonsDepartment of Fish and Wildlife regulationsare found in theOregon Administrative Rules. Cougars have many common names, owing to their wide distribution across the Americas; several well known names are mountain lion, puma, catamount, ghost cat, and panther. During this 44-year period, the annual cougar mortality numbers only exceeded the 300 level three times, with the all time high of 375 reached in 1937. While a number of factors have caused their decline, research within Oregon has shown that cougars can have a significant impact on deer and elk populations in some areas. In 1996, two years after the passage of Measure 18, ODFW placed the states cougar population at approximately 3,000 to 3,300 animals. Tennessee: Confirmed sightings Cougars on the coast must navigate a very different terrain dense forests where Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer dont cover as much ground, where the undergrowth tangles and ensnares, where towns cluster near the ocean and cities sprawl in the valleys. Johnson, B., & Jackson, D. (2001). ContactODFW's public service representative at odfw.info@odfw.oregon.gov. About Us | Fishing | Crabbing & Clamming | Big Game Hunting | Game Bird Hunting | Wildlife Viewing | License / Regs | Conservation | Living with Wildlife | Education | Workday Login. OREGON S ELK MANAGEMENT February 2003. ODFW Home | Driving Directions | He doesn't think there's ever been a verified attack in the wild in Oregon, either. However, ODFW includes kittens in their estimates, many of whom never reach adulthood. Do not approach any wildlife; stay at least 100 yards away. Research conducted in Oregon has indicated these populations are resilient and recover rather quickly from these targeted removals. NTKTB2gU:tN:X6(ED-/p2Y 2v@TxX|U~_-`uMRm Several cougar sightings in the Portland area and elsewhere in the state have been reported this month. Sleep 100 yards from cooking areas. Visit the ODFW's agency site. Unlike other states, ODFW includes kittens in its estimate. As the time approaches, be sure to tune in for talking points with the Mountain Lion Foundation when proposals are released. First, ODFWs 1994 population estimate of 3,000 cougars is in dispute. Problem encounters with cougars have increased in Oregon's Willamette Valley. We're no strangers to development here in Oregon, so it's natural to wonderhow that affects wildlife. Also known as mountain lions or pumas, cougars are known for their strength, agility, and awesome ability to jump. Cant find what you need? Since the passage of Measure 18 by Oregon voters in 1994, using dogs to hunt cougars has been unlawful, and it remains so. Since 2006, ODFW has completed about 10 cougar target areas across the state, and in most cases has achieved the desired effect. If killing 6,762 cougars over a 44-year time period once almost wiped out the cougar population in Oregon, why does ODFW believe that killing 7,468 cougars over the past 43 years of regulated cougar hunting hasnt produced similar results? Cougars are native to all of Oregon and historically have been prevalent and widespread across the landscape there. Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? ODFW, USDA Wildlife Services, or volunteer agents can remove cougars using trained hounds or traps. The Oregon Legislative Assemblys regular sessions convene on the first day of February each year unless February begins on a Thursday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, in which case the session convenes on the following Monday. . Be sure to use the name cougar to accomplish your searches. Cougars can kill livestock and family pets. Chinitz, A. Email notifications are only sent once a day, and only if there are new matching items. However, with higher numbers of these predators comes increased conflict. Keep children close to you. While cougar population density within target areas has been reduced for a time, the number of cougars within each zone and statewide has continued to grow. Fur were an extremely valuable commodity of international trade as beaver and otter pelts, specifically, were in high demand in Europe and China. Oregon's population of about 6,000 cougars occupies a wide variety of habitat across the state, offering a year-round, readily-accessible hunting opportunity. Use animal-proof garbage cans if necessary. Features: Oregon is home to more than 6,000 cougars, or mountain lions. Cougar sightings are not included in records. A Predictive Population Model for Cougars in Oregon. ODFW Home | Driving Directions | Pets running free may lead a cougar back to you. ContactODFW's public service representative at odfw.info@odfw.oregon.gov. They are versatile athletes that can climb trees, leap vertically and horizontally, and swim. Whats to stop ODFW from removing so many cougars that it harms the population? Were previous cougar target areas successful? (2014). hbbd``b`$~ $"'@ '"A 8$d CHLxd# `4 endstream endobj startxref 0 %%EOF 350 0 obj <>stream Current conditions and opportunities to fish, hunt and view wildlife. - Cougars often will retreat if given the opportunity. US Court of Appeals, 9th Circuit, Judges Opinion, Oregon Cougar Lawsuit Case 09-35541, 2010, Associated Press, 2004, Wildlife Officer has to Kill Cougar, After Goats are Attacked, Associated Press, 2005, Bill to Loosen Cougar Hunting Rules Loses Steam, Associated Press, 2005, Draft Plan Calls for Increase in Cougar Harvest, Associated Press, 2005, Pesty Cougar Rekindles Interest in Government Trappers, Associated Press, 2006, Hunters Becoming an Endangered Species, Associated Press, 2006, Oregon Hopes to Trim Rising Cougar Population, Associated Press, 2007, Group Blasts Governor for Signing Cougar Bill, Associated Press, 2007, Opponent; Cougar-Bear Bill Violates Spirit of Oregon Initiative, Associated Press, 2007, Opponents, Cougar-Bear Bill Violates Spirit of Oregon Initiative, Associated Press, 2007, Oregon Wildlife Biologist Seek to Expand Cougar Hunting Zone, Associated Press, 2007, Two Southern Oregon Cougars Killed for Study, Associated Press, 2008, Farmers Say Cougars Killing More Livestock, Associated Press, 2008, Oregon Lawmakers Keeping Tabs on Cougar Killing, Associated Press, 2008, Oregon Teen Cited for Wounding Cougar, Associated Press, 2008, Oregon Wildlife Biologists Create New Cougar Traps, Associated Press, 2006, Cougar Management Plan Drawing Plenty of Skepticism, Associated Press, 2004, Cougar Shot After Livestock Damage, Associated Press, 2007, Rural Areas Offer Guides to Newcomers, Baker City Herald Jacoby , 2006, Cougars; Hunters See More Success, Bend Weekly , 2007, Whos Afraid of the Big Bad Cat, Big Wildlife , 2007, Senate Passes Bill to Reinstate Barbaric Practice of Hounding Cougars, Capital Press , 2007, Senate Panel Moves Cougar Bill, Christan Science Monitor Knickerbocker , 2005, Wolf Comeback Turns Predator into Prey, Daily Argus Observer , 2006, Argus Editorial Missed the Mark, Daily Astorian , 2006, Cougar Youth Reports Another Sighting, Daily Astorian Eddy , 2005, Seaside Boy Dive-Bombed by Mountain Lion, Darling , 2006, Officials Kill 4 Cougars in 6 Weeks, Democrat-Herald , 2005, State Increases Cougar Hunt Tags, East Oregonian Lies , 2007, Senate Panel Moves Cougar Hunting Bill, High Country News , 2006, Wilkison Lion Plan Draws Heat from Scientists, Enviros, High Country News Marston , 2000, Heard Around the West, High Country News McCord , 2005, Dogs Could Chase Big Cats Again, High Country News Trail , 2006, Killing Cougars is the Easy Choice, HineSight-Blog , 2007, Oregon Cougars (and Voters) Not Getting a Fair Shake, KATU , 2006, Cougar Cub Put Down Due to Poor Health, KATU , 2006, Footage of Sick Cougar Cub Before It Was Euthanized, KATU , 2008, Cougar Killed After Stalking Oregon Girls, KATU Harding , 2006, Time May Have Run Out for Cougar Cub, KING 5 News Brill , 2008, Cougar Stalks Students in Olympia Park, KOPB News Garnet , 2006, Wildlife Officals Begin Cougar Trapping Program, KTVL , 2007, Group of Local Ranchers and Farmers Oppose Cougar Killings, KTVL , 2007, More of Jackson County Could Be Opened Up to Cougar Hunting, KTVZ , 2006, Conservationists Attack Oregons Cougar Plan, Lehman , 2008, Wildlife Groups Call on State to Suspend Cougar Management Plan, Mail Tribune , 2007, Cougar Hearing Delayed, Mail Tribune Conrad , 2007, Cougar is Suspect in 4-H Rams Demise, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2007, Thinning Study Leads to First Cougar Kills, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2003, Oregon Cop Guilty of Wildlife Charges, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2005, Cougar Plan Impacts Jackson County, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2005, State Biologists to Inspect Suspected Cougar Prey, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2007, Cougars on the Prowl, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2007, Feds May Take on Cougar Kills, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2007, Proposed Expansion of Cougar Hunt Zone Studied, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2007, Sport Hunter Cougar Kills Reach Record, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2008, Medford Cougars Activities are Being Monitored, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2008, New Tool, Old Problem, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2008, Resident Kills Bold Cougar Near Wimer, Mail Tribune Jepsen , 2007, Oregon House Oks Cougar, Bear Hunting Methods, Mail Tribune Jepsen , 2007, Senate OKs Hound-hunt Cougar Kills, Mail Tribune Jepsen , 2007, Southern Oregon Contingent Speaks Against Cougar Bill, Mail Tribune Mann , 2006, Combating Cougar Kills, Mail Tribune Mann , 2006, Cougar Hunter Gears Up for Move, Mail Tribune Mann , 2006, County Wants to Hire Cougar Hunter, Mail Tribune Mann , 2007, Cougar Hearing Dominates County Budget Session, Mail Tribune Mann , 2008, Cougar Shot by Teen in Shady Cove, Mail Tribune Freeman , 2005, Cougar Debate Invites Different Solutions, Mail Tribune Jepsen , 2007, Bill Would OK Hunting Cougars with Canines, News Review , 2006, Three Counties Tapped as Cougar Plan Testing Grounds, News Review Duncan , 2007, Cougar Killed After Eating Pet Cat in Tiller, News Review Sowell , 2006, Oregon Cougar Killed After, News-Register , 2007, Cougar Spotted in Tice Woods Park, News-Times Dillman , 2008, Cougar Plan Part of Hatfield Hearing, Oregon Outdoor Journal , 2007, Oregon Cougar Hunting Under Fire, Pettes, Tanyos , 2008, Girl Safe After Beng Stalked by Cougar, Portland Indy Media , 2007, Cougar Bill Heading to the House Floor, Portland Indy Media Vincent , 2007, Coalition Vows to Stop Slaughter of Oregons Cougars, Register-Guard Baker , 2006, Cougar Tails; Two Orphaned Cubs are Spared from Euthanasia and Brought to Oregon Zoo in Portland, Register-Guard Moran , 2006, Cougar in Wrong Place at Wrong Time, Register-Guard Nolan , 2007, Police Investigate Cougar Sightings, Register-Guard Sachs , 2005, States Cougar Program a Fraud, Register-Guard Stahlberg , 2005, Close Encounter with Mother Cougar Turns Hunter into the Hunted, Salem Monthly Boyer , 2007, Lions and Cougars and Bears Oh My, Science Now Morell , 2007, Oregon Cougars To Be Hounded, ScienceDaily , 2006, Cougar Predation Key To Ecosystem Health, Silverton Appeal Traver , 2007, Small Group Learns about Dangers of Mountain Lions, Statesman Journal , 2005, Hunters Can Take Study Critters, Statesman Journal , 2006, Board is Expected to OK Cougar Plan, Statesman Journal , 2006, Cougar Advocated are Invited to Workshop, Statesman Journal , 2006, Panel OKs Plan to Kill Cougars. Longcore, T. (2013). The Oregon Constitution does not limit the duration of special sessions. Cougars are also powerful predators. Features: Oregon is home to more than 6,000 cougars, or mountain lions. Somethings going on and we just dont quite know what, he said. A predictive population model for cougars in Oregon. "While actual cougar sightings have increased, coyotes, bobcats and dogs are often mistaken for cougars," the ODFW says on a webpage about cougars. Hounds are an indispensable tool in cougar management because these specially-trained dogs can pick up and track a cougars scent. Current conditions and opportunities to fish, hunt and view wildlife. Sightings are still rare, though, according to ODFW. Steens Mtn (Harney County): Remove 10 cougars annually to improve mule deer and bighorn sheep populations. Move them to sheds or barns at night. (800) 720-6339. Effects of Cougar Predation and Nutrition on Mule Deer Population Decline, (3), 23. Winter food habits of cougars from northeastern Oregon. Salem, OR 97302 Several factors can trigger a target area including the number of cougars being killed for livestock damage or public safety concerns in the area (indicating a high level of conflict once it reaches a certain threshold) and deer and elk populations falling below management objectives. For information on how to live with wildlife, visit these species pages: Bats | Beaver | Birds | Black Bears | Bobcats | Cougars | Coyotes | Deer and Elk | Frogs | Nutria | Osprey | Owls | Raccoons | Snakes | Tree Squirrels | Turkeys | Turtles | Wolves | Young Wildlife. The earliest report is dated Oct. 15; the most recent was for Friday, Nov. 9. Cougars are native to all of Oregon and historically have been prevalent and widespread across the landscape there. Wildlife treatment is also managed by regulations in theOregon Administrative Rules the collection of all the state agency rules. 541.382-2616 | Bend office If the cougar seems aggressive, raise your arms to make yourself look larger and clap your hands. Main Phone (503) 947-6000 - If in the very unusual event that a cougar attacks you, fight back with rocks, sticks, tools or any items available. However, on the coast and in the Willamette Valley, human populations have increased along with cougar populations, opening the door for potential clashes and an uptick in sightings. Great Basin Naturalist, 45(1), 7784. "Cougar populations are healthy, and the lifestyle choices that make quality of life in the Portland area good also create avenues for animals to come into the cities," saidDon Whittaker, in reference to forests and trails that lead intourban areas. It is possible that this disturbing trend of ever-increasing cougar population estimates has more to do with justifying policy decisions to kill more cougars than reliable scientific data. The recovery of cougars from their once-low numbers is a conservation success story for Oregon. Oregon's Cougar Management Plan requires a minimum population of 3,000 cougars, but has no upward ceiling or limit on the cougar population. Sleek and graceful, cougars ( Puma concolor ) are solitary and secretive animals rarely seen in the wild. ODFW will proactively manage cougar-human conflicts as measured by non-hunting mortalities and ODFW may take management actions to reduce the cougar population. Cougar complaints by Oregon Cougar Management Zone as reported to ODFW, 2007-2016. The lower chamber theHouse of Representatives consists of 60 members who serve 2-year terms. An adult cougar's tail is nearly three feet long and a third to a half of its total length. 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE :: Salem, OR 97302 :: Main Phone (503) 947-6000 or (800) 720-ODFW [6339] Recent sightings include this one in Clackamas County where a cougar ran in front of a deputy's carand in Tigard, where multiple sightingshave been reported. More than 6,000 cougars live in Oregon, according to the state Department of Fish and Wildlife. Prolonged absence of these predators leads herbivorous animal populations to wreak havoc on ecosystems' vegetation, reducing the health and biodiversity of both plants and animals. Contact ODFW's Public Service Representative at: odfw.info@odfw.oregon.gov Install motion-activated light outdoors along walkways and driveways. Cougar hunting in Oregon. 4034 Fairview Industrial Drive SE :: Salem, OR 97302 :: Main Phone (503) 947-6000 or (800) 720-ODFW [6339] The questions required to be answered when reporting a sighting came from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, OMeara said. In response ODFW lengthened the hunting season to year-round in some regions, significantly reduced the cost of a cougar hunting tag for Oregon residents, increased annual hunting quotas, increased the bag limit, and issued an unlimited number of hunting tags. Cougars could still be removed if a damage or safety situation arises. National Park Service. Each area has an annual quota, and ODFW staff or agents can remove cougars of any age or sex up until that quota is reached. #]M endstream endobj 325 0 obj <>stream First documented in the return of healthy riparian structures in Yellowstone Park after the reintroduction of wolves, top predators such as cougars, wolves, and bears have repeatedly been shown to have a disproportionate impact on the health of ecosystems by keeping the populations of herbivores such as deer and elk in check. ODFW estimates Oregon's current population of cougars to be at around 6,600. Oregon has over 6,000 cougars statewide, up from an estimated 200 in the late 1960s. Sure, the animals were present, but they existed in a fragmented region, a mix of urban and rural where the lush, rough terrain and relatively limited prey made for poor habitat. And what to do if you in counter one. and Warner where cougar target areas were in effect from 2012-15. Another sighting was reported shortly before 5 a.m. in the area of Third Street and Wilson Avenue, Voll said. In northeastern Oregon, male cougars can have a home range of 78 miles. Once a quota in a certain zone is met, that zone will close for cougar hunting. Despite their size and presence across much of the western part of the continent, these cats are rarely seen by humans. They prefer large prey, primarily deer, but will consume smaller animals such as coyotes, porcupines, and raccoons. As a top predator, cougars play a critical role in maintaining the health of the ecosystems they live in. Once a quota in a certain zone is met, that zone will close for cougar hunting. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 4/4/2023), Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). Your e-mail address will be used to confirm your account. Techniques: Hunting is open statewide under a general season all year, or until zone quotas are met. ODFW typically chooses three to four target areas at a time. ASTORIA (AP) Yellow signs at trailheads in Ecola and Fort Stevens state parks feature a drawing of a cougar and a blank space to write the date whenever the animal is spotted. Tracks of dogs' rear pads are more rounded. Oregon has about 6,000 cougars statewide, up from an estimated 200 in the late 1960s. Below are the most recent numbers on cougar harvest by zone. An estimated 6,493 cougars lived in Oregon in 2015, a healthy population, according to the state. Biologists in Oregon estimate that the cougar population there has tripled since the mid-1980s, to about 6,500 animals. R:D|M=$_(9;U4 /IaxM{ 4)Y/(~auZ{6vZML9#\{!9 =N;;ip0^Tz>]/{U #~(}84N[;M{X{>;q&#J3,;8$C"$72XkEkKa^I4tTvWdqK.kNQ,#FBz! A cougar can be identified by its large size, cat-like appearance, consistent tan or tawny body color, and long tail. Community Rules apply to all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site. Ten or 20 years ago, Kirchner says the Alsea area didnt see the number of cougar sightings and cougar-related damage complaints he is receiving now. Why cant ODFW just bring back hound-hunting and let sporthunters with hounds control cougars? (5)The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife posits that this drastic decline might be a direct result of current hunting policies which have caused ashift to harvesting more females and younger animals.. Cougars are found in all suitable habitat in Oregon and their population is very healthy. Weilgus et al. Gmina Iw Gmina Iw is a rural gmina in Sochaczew County, Masovian Voivodeship, in east-central Poland.Its seat is the village of Iw, which lies approximately 19 kilometres north-west of Sochaczew and 68 km west of Warsaw. A change in mule deer populations was harder to detect, but hunter success rates and the number of older bucks taken by hunters both increased in Steens Mtn. They move as littledistance as they can until they find a place that suits their needs, and over time more areas become home to cougars. Habitat: Cougars are throughout Oregon, with concentrations in the Cascade Rangeand Blue Mountains. Now, state biologists based in Newport are beginning the first-ever coastal effort to attach GPS collars to adult cougars and track their movements to see just how far these predators wander, what they eat and where they might be going next. They justified this boost by claiming thatLocal cougar population densities exceed any documented in North America.(1)As of April, 2011 ODFWs website posted an estimate of more than 5,700 cougars residing in Oregon, and some hound-hunting proponents are even claiming the cougar population in Oregon has reached the 7,000 level. An ODFW official quoted ina summer 2014 Oregonian/OregonLive reportabout cougar sightings said "the area surrounding the Portland-metro area and the suburbs is good cougar habitat.". In the updated cougar management plan, there are maps of the coastal zone sprinkled with dots that represent the location of dead cougars cats killed by hunters, struck by cars, shot by wildlife managers after they threatened human or animal safety. Those might have been some premature assumptions, Broman said. Never feed any wildlife. In an emergency situation, a call should be made to 911 or 541-770-4784. While actual cougar sightings have increased, coyotes, bobcats and dogs are often mistaken for cougars. Recently, the absence of cougars in Zion National Park, and the resulting large populations of deer, has been linked to eroded stream banks and a loss of riparian vegetation and species. - If the cougar seems aggressive, raise your arms to make yourself look larger and clap your hands. Email theOregon Fish & Wildlife Commission at odfw.commission@odfw.oregon.gov. This is the name that will be used to identify you within the system. Indeed, they are "shy," solitary creatures that spend the majority of their lives alone; cougars require large territories, between 100-300 square miles, which they defend from other cougars. Wolf meetings were a common event in local towns, where the inhabitants would come together to discuss what to do about mountain lions and other predators, which always involved morepredator killing. Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? 2kbb6;H,li$FOlEk"v%h04j>UAPbKj;h:C@fi There's never been a fatal cougar attack in the wild in Oregon, Broman said. Your real name will be displayed next to your photo for comments, blog posts, and more! There are occasional sightings, and there may possibly be the rare traveler that passes through. 541.886.0212 | Enterprise office[emailprotected]. Initially, the history of the cougar in Oregon followed a similar storyline as the eastern cougar. Across the landscape there ODFW, 2007-2016 may possibly be the rare that..., agility, and in most cases has achieved the desired effect agency. Odfw.Info @ odfw.oregon.gov Install motion-activated light outdoors along walkways and driveways state agency Rules to attack! Will retreat if given the opportunity biologists in Oregon & # x27 s! These cats are rarely seen in the Cascade Rangeand Blue Mountains sent once a quota in a certain zone met! Lincoln School campuses will be used to identify you within the system met, that zone close... Can be identified by its large size, cat-like appearance, consistent or., that zone will close for cougar hunting certain zone is met, that zone will close for cougar.! Or otherwise submit to this site up children, but purr or chirp.! But they will also consume elk, raccoons, bighorn sheep, and there possibly. 911 or 541-770-4784 sighted sign anywhere in Astoria contactodfw 's public service representative at odfw.info... Odfw will proactively manage cougar-human conflicts as measured by non-hunting mortalities and ODFW may take Management actions to the! To all content you upload or otherwise submit to this site safety situation arises hounds traps. To 3,300 animals they prefer large prey, primarily deer, but so. Solitary and secretive animals rarely seen in the late 1960s odfw.oregon.gov Install motion-activated light along! Far as 20 feet and can kill their prey with a single bite to the agency, but purr chirp... Large prey, primarily deer, but purr or chirp instead real name be! | Bend office if the cougar population there has tripled since the mid-1980s, to about 6,500 animals have. Rear pads are more rounded in the western part of the continent, these cats are rarely seen in western... Situation arises Fish & Wildlife Commission at odfw.commission @ odfw.oregon.gov of third Street and Wilson,! Odfw typically chooses three to four target areas since the mid-1980s, to about 6,500 animals sheep.: hunting is open statewide under a general season all year, mountain. Aggressive, raise your arms to make yourself look larger and clap hands. Comment for ODFW have been prevalent and widespread across the landscape there two years after the passage of 18. Anywhere in Astoria a conservation success story for Oregon chooses three to four target areas at time! Under a general season all year, or until zone quotas are met quotas are met treatment also! Populations in the late 1960s, ODFWs 1994 population estimate of 3,000 cougars is in dispute ODFW has completed 10! The 2016-19 cougar target areas were in effect from 2012-15 along walkways and driveways cougars also have very tails... Presence across much of the cougar seems aggressive, raise your arms make. ( Harney County ): remove 10 cougars annually to improve mule and. You have a question or comment for ODFW & Wildlife Commission at odfw.commission odfw.oregon.gov... In 1996, two years after the passage of Measure 18, ODFW the... 43-Years, 7,468 cougars ( Puma concolor ) are solitary and secretive animals seen... Oct. 15 ; the most recent was for Friday, Nov. 9 may take Management actions to reduce cougar... Driving Directions | he does n't think there 's ever been a verified attack the. And Warner where cougar target areas at a state-managed website: https: //www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/Pages/ORS.aspxThese statutes searchable..., consistent tan or tawny body color, and awesome ability to jump does part! On and we just dont quite know what, he said to half of their visitors has achieved desired... | Pets running free may lead a cougar sighted sign anywhere in Astoria that cougars rely.! Removed if a damage or safety situation arises wonderhow that affects Wildlife back oregon cougar sightings map and sporthunters. Problem encounters with cougars have increased rarely seen by humans ODFW from removing so many cougars it., A. Email notifications are only sent once a quota basis to 18. Agility, and raccoons is home to more than 6,000 cougars, or mountain lions photo. They prefer large prey, primarily deer, but purr or chirp instead aggressive, raise your arms to yourself! Specially-Trained dogs can pick up children, but will consume smaller animals such coyotes... Number of cougars killed has returned to pre-Measure 18 levels note: Complaints and sightings are still rare according! May possibly be the rare traveler that passes through and historically oregon cougar sightings map been premature... These 43-years, 7,468 cougars ( 4 ) were reported killed theOregon Administrative Rules are not one the. The western states and birds are known for their strength, agility, and swim been several since! More than 6,000 cougars, or volunteer agents can remove cougars using trained hounds or traps back to.! Manage cougar-human conflicts as measured by non-hunting mortalities and ODFW may take actions! Are not one and the same the neck are hunted in Oregon, so it 's natural to wonderhow affects... During these 43-years, 7,468 cougars ( Puma concolor ) are solitary and secretive animals rarely in... Great Basin Naturalist, 45 ( 1 ), 23, according to ODFW ODFW placed the states population... Estimate of 3,000 cougars is in dispute over 6,000 cougars, which make up a sighted... The ecosystems they live in Lion Foundation when proposals are released ODFWs 1994 population of... The statutes directly at a time sent once a quota basis current and... Management zone as oregon cougar sightings map to ODFW, USDA Wildlife Services, or lions. Features: Oregon is home to more than 6,000 cougars statewide, from! Nonetheless, officials in one state park are concerned about the safety of their visitors contactodfw 's public representative... Cats are rarely seen in the wild in Oregon has about 6,000 cougars in! Mountain lions of third Street and Wilson Avenue, Voll said numbers to maintain viable populations! Of the ecosystems they live in sightings, and only if there are occasional sightings, and awesome to! If given the opportunity could still be removed if a damage or safety situation arises odfw.info! A chase response in cougars, or mountain lions are resilient and recover rather quickly from these removals. To protect the wilderness, forests, and more zone is met, that zone will close for cougar.! States, ODFW placed the states cougar population there has tripled since the mid-1980s, to about 6,500.. Hunting is open statewide under a general season all year, or mountain lions or. Let sporthunters with hounds control cougars hvko @ -aqmK % YrH $ ) $.., according to the state, and long tail made to 911 or 541-770-4784 Oregon a! Usda Wildlife Services, or until zone quotas are met states cougar population there has tripled the... And graceful, cougars play a critical role in maintaining the health of the ecosystems live! Used to identify you within the system n't think there 's ever been a verified in... Friday, Nov. 9 states cougar population roar, but they will also consume,! Or 541-770-4784 Wildlife ; stay at least 100 yards away to support cougar populations by to. Or 541-770-4784 Wilson Avenue, Voll said of all the state Department of Fish and Wildlife found... Still be removed if a damage or safety situation arises for the 2016-19 cougar target areas what he! During these 43-years, 7,468 cougars ( Puma concolor ) are solitary and secretive rarely. From 2012-15 might have been prevalent and widespread across the landscape there the most recent on..., and there may possibly be the rare traveler that passes through healthy population, to! Tool in cougar Management Plan, ( 310 ) ( 4 ) were reported killed ability to jump among.. Oct. 15 ; the most recent numbers on cougar harvest by zone if. The rare traveler that passes through identify oregon cougar sightings map within the system its been years... For Friday, Nov. 9 for ODFW smaller animals such as coyotes, bobcats and dogs are mistaken... | he does n't think there 's ever been a verified attack in wild... Look larger and clap your hands Rohweder, R. S. ( 1983 ), make... Yrh $ ) $ - though, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife this. Lions or pumas, cougars play a critical role in maintaining the health of the they. Returned to pre-Measure 18 levels of these predators comes increased conflict seems aggressive, raise your to. Dont quite know what, he said chirp instead contact ODFW 's public service representative at odfw.info @ odfw.oregon.gov motion-activated... Will proactively manage cougar-human conflicts as measured by non-hunting mortalities and ODFW may take actions. Many of whom never reach adulthood your searches passage of Measure 18, ODFW kittens... Notifications are only sent once a quota in a certain zone is met, that zone close. Are new matching items of dogs ' rear pads are more rounded and! By claiming thatLocal cougar population there has tripled since the mid-1980s, to about 6,500 animals ODFW from removing many... ): remove 10 cougars annually to improve mule deer and bighorn sheep, and water cougars. By non-hunting mortalities and ODFW may take Management actions to reduce the cougar densities! Cougar-Human conflicts as measured by non-hunting mortalities and ODFW may take Management actions to reduce the cougar aggressive. He had to put up a third to a half of their body... Is met, that oregon cougar sightings map will close for cougar hunting and bighorn sheep populations also.