A man near Smithers, British Columbia, escaped a cougar attack on Saturday after defending himself in a surprising way — by punching the animal in the face. The incident happened around 11 a.m. near Lake Kathlyn, located in the province’s northern Interior.
The man was working alone outdoors when he suddenly saw a cougar approach him. Without warning, the wild animal lunged and swiped at the upper part of his body. According to conservation officers, the man reacted quickly. He struck the cougar in the face, which caused it to stop the attack and run away.
After the encounter, the man contacted local authorities. Officers from the provincial Conservation Officer Service arrived at the scene shortly afterward. They confirmed that the man had only minor injuries. His wounds were not life-threatening, and he did not need to be taken to the hospital.
The Conservation Officer Service says they immediately took steps to ensure public safety in the area. They set a live trap nearby and searched for the cougar. However, the animal was not found. Officers are continuing to monitor the region around Lake Kathlyn in case the cougar returns or poses further risk to people in the area.
While cougar sightings are not rare in British Columbia, attacks are still considered unusual. Cougars — also known as mountain lions — are generally shy animals and tend to avoid humans. Still, when cornered or surprised, they can be dangerous.
Experts advise people living or working in cougar territory to take precautions. This includes staying alert when alone outdoors, making noise to avoid surprising animals, and carrying bear spray or a walking stick. In rare cases of an encounter, experts say people should try to appear large, make noise, and fight back if attacked. Running away is not recommended, as it can trigger the cougar’s instinct to chase.
In this case, conservation officers praised the man’s quick thinking and bravery. They noted that his fast reaction likely saved him from more serious harm. The Conservation Officer Service has also urged other residents and workers in the area to report any sightings of cougars, especially if the animals appear bold or aggressive.
The incident has caught attention online, with many users expressing amazement at the man’s response. Some called him a hero, while others said the story serves as a reminder of how important it is to be prepared in the wild.
British Columbia is home to one of the largest cougar populations in North America. These animals are usually found in forested or mountainous areas. Although they mostly hunt deer, cougars can sometimes go after smaller animals or, in rare cases, approach humans.
The man involved in Saturday’s incident has not been named, but he is said to be recovering well. Authorities have not found any signs that the same cougar has returned. Still, they are keeping the trap in place and asking people nearby to be cautious and stay informed.
People in the Smithers area are reminded to keep pets indoors at night, avoid wooded trails at dawn and dusk, and report any cougar sightings to conservation officials.
