Cougars on the prowl near Bragg Creek

Cougar (file photo)

A cougar advisory has been issued for a popular hiking area southwest of Bragg Creek after numerous sightings were reported to conservation officers.

The caution is for the Alder trail area just off Highway 758 in Bragg Creek Provincial Park.

Wildlife officers checked the area and found several spots where one or more cougars crossed the trail which prompted them to issue the warning on Tuesday afternoon.

Tips to minimize your chance of surprising a cougar:

Handling a cougar encounter:

To report cougar sightings and carcass locations call 403-591-7755.

For more information about cougar safety, visit the WildSmart website.