![Lynx attack in Sioux Lookout](https://media-cdn.socastsrm.com/wordpress/wp-content/blogs.dir/3041/files/2023/07/lynx.png)
(File photo)
A person from Sioux Lookout is recovering in hospital after being attacked by a lynx.
The incident took place Thursday night around 11:30.
The OPP say a person had an encounter with a lynx in the Millar Crescent area and was injured.
Police officers says they patrolled the area, but were unable to locate the large cat.
If you encounter a lynx or cougar:
- Never approach the animal, especially if it’s near a kill or with young.
- Never offer it food.
- Do not run, a cat’s instinct is to chase.
- If you’re with others, stay together and act as a group.
- Face the animal and talk firmly while slowly backing away.
- Always leave the animal an escape route.
- Do not crouch down or try to hide, instead try to appear larger.
- Do not take your eyes off the animal or turn your back.
- If the animal does not flee, be more assertive by shouting, waving your arms and throwing anything available.
Eliminate sources of food
- Do not put meat, fish or other attractive foods in your composter.
- Frequently wash garbage cans, recycling containers and their lids with a strong-smelling disinfectant.
- Do not leave garbage cans outside overnight.
- Secure garbage lids, clean up spilled garbage and do not leave garbage around a campsite or cottage.
- Empty the grease trap from barbecues.
- Feed pets indoors.
How to avoid conflicts
- Consider motion-sensing lights to light all walkways around your home.
- Watch for signs of animal activity such as tracks, claw marks and droppings.
- Make noise as you travel through the woods – talk, sing, carry a radio.
- Travel in groups.
- If hiking alone, tell someone where you plan to go and what time you expect to return.
- Keep dogs leashed so they do not provoke attacks by wild animals.
For more information on lynx encounters please visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/preventing-and-managing-conflicts-lynx-bobcats-and-cougars
Should you see a lynx in a residential area and you believe there is a risk to the public, you are urged to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or by dialing 911 if it is an emergency situation.