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1. What do I do if I encounter a cougar?

According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, relatively few people will ever encounter a cougar. If you are one of the few who do, be sure to:  

• Stop, pick up small children immediately, and don’t run.  
• Maintain eye contact with the cougar while backing away slowly.  
• Make yourself as large as possible: stand tall, shout, wave your hands and throw anything you have available (water bottle, book). The idea is to convince the cougar that you are not prey, but a potential danger.   
• If the cougar attacks, fight back. Cougars have been driven away by people who have fought back. Be aggressive and try to stay on your feet. Bear spray can also be effective.  

 

2. What do I do if I encounter a black bear?

According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, you should do the following if in close contact with a bear:  

• Remain calm and assess the situation. If the bear seems unaware of you, move away quietly when it's not looking in your direction.
• If a bear walks toward you, identify yourself as a human by standing up, waiving your heads and talking to the bear in a low voice.  
• If you cannot safely move away from the bear, scare it away by clapping your hands, stomping your feet and yelling. If you are in a group, stand shoulder-to-shoulder and raise and wave your arms to appear intimidating. 
• Do not run from the bear and do not throw anything at the bear, which the bear could interpret as a threat.  

3. What do I do if I come across a fawn?

Chances are, if you find a fawn, or baby deer, alone, it is safe and healthy. According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, doe will often leave her fawn alone for long periods to feed herself and rest. While mom is away, fawns will instinctively lie low and wait for their mother to return.  

Do not touch or relocate a fawn. If it appears weak, ill or injured, please contact the PAPD non-emergency line at (360) 452-4545.  

Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website to learn more about what to do when encountering a fawn or other young animals. 

4. Who do I call if there is deceased wildlife in the public right of way (a City street, median or sidewalk)?

Please contact the Streets Division of the Public Works & Utilities Department at (360) 417-4800. Crews will be dispatched to the location to remove the deceased wildlife.  

5. What do I do if I encounter injured wildlife?

Please call the Port Angeles Police Department non-emergency line: (360) 452-4545. 

You can also report an immediate public safety issue, wildlife violation, or injured or dangerous animals to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Office at (360) 902-2936 or enforcement-web@dfw.wa.gov. 

If you are experiencing an emergency, please call 911.