Warning: Disturbing image in story
PORTLAND, Ore. -- A homeowner shot and killed a cougar in the Columbia River Gorge after sightings closed a popular hiking trail.
The animal was shot along the Historic Columbia River Highway on Thursday night.
The U.S. Forest Service on Friday tweeted that the Angel’s Rest trailhead was reopened after authorities determined that the dead cougar was likely the same cougar that entered a home in the area on Tuesday and killed two pet goats on Wednesday.
Sheriff's deputies responded to a report on Wednesday that a cougar had killed the goats near the popular hiking trail. They learned that a cougar had entered a home Tuesday across the road from where the goats were killed and "showed little fear" of humans.
For that reason, authorities believed the cougar posed a threat to people and livestock and needed to be removed from the area.
"I was always surprised they haven't been attacked before, so it's really no surprise at all," said neighbor Matt Sund, referring to livestock in the area.
The Angel’s Rest Trailhead is located near Bridal Veil.
Oregon Parks and Recreation says if you encounter a cougar you should do the following:
- Stop. Stay calm. Don't run. Keep a hold of your pets and children.
- Appear large.
- Make noise.
- Fight back if attacked.