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Sneaky big cat in Banff

RCMP Banff

UPDATE 7:08 p.m.

A seven-second clip from an RCMP video, taken around 3 a.m. on Jan. 9, is posted on the Alberta RCMP's YouTube page.

The video, which shows the constable talking to a motorist, captured a cougar sneaking by a couple of metres away — in front of a grocery store. It shows the officer briefly turning his head to look at the big cat.

"It certainly is unique to see (a cougar) in the urban areas of Banff," said RCMP Staff Sgt. Mike Buxton-Carr.

Police immediately reported the sighting to wildlife officials with Banff National Park.

"Staff went out and forward-tracked the animal and later the next day we were able to back-track it," said Bill Hunt, manager of resource conservation with Banff National Park. "It didn't come across any garbage or anything that would give it a food reward.

"So, as soon as it got back out of town, it carried along through the wildlife corridor."

Cougars are known to frequent wildlife corridors around Banff.

Officials said it's concerning anytime a carnivore ventures into the townsite.

"We try to discourage that as much as possible," said Hunt, who notes they are hoping the cougar doesn't return. "I am sure this happens several times a year and goes completely undetected.

"Cougars can be pretty elusive so they are hard to spot."


ORIGINAL: 11:13 a.m.

An RCMP officer on a traffic stop in Banff caught more than he expected on his car's dash camera.

The video, which shows the constable talking to a motorist, captured a cougar dashing by a couple of metres away — in front of a grocery store.

It shows the officer turning his head to look at the big cat.

The video, taken overnight on Jan. 9, is posted on the Alberta RCMP's YouTube page.

It prompted a reminder by wildlife staff in Banff National Park for people to act responsibly when visiting the town and the park.

Cougars are known to frequent wildlife corridors in Banff, but it's unusual for them to go into town.



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