Another cougar kill?

Those of us who frequent the Gus Johnson trail and surrounding area have been watching out for the moose and calf that have been spotted in various locations -- near the trail, in yards, walking down Lookout Road, and there was even evidence that they walked across the Wyse's deck to look in the sliding glass door! It's been both thrilling and frightening to see them!

Unfortunately, the calf was recently found dead close to the clearing/ burn area between the Gus Johnson trail and Osprey Road. It's not apparent how it died, but we suspect it could have been a cougar. Over the next few days we will have a better idea. If a cougar was involved then she/he will almost certainly return on several occasions to eat the carcass. This is from the Ministry of Environment website, a useful article to read if you want a quick overview of cougar habits.

Cougar generally eat about 70 per cent (by weight) of the carcass of a big-game animal, leaving most of the larger skeletal bones, the rumen, some viscera, and parts of the hide. They will make repeated visits to a carcass, take a meal during each visit, and usually cover the remains with dirt and debris after each feed.

Meanwhile, be careful when out walking, especially in the area where the dead calf was found.