POSSIBLE WILDCAT SIGHTING ON KAWEHNO:KE

The Akwesasne Mohawk Police and Mohawk Council of Akwesasne’s Environment Program are notifying the community of a possible wildcat sighting that was reported on Kawehno:ke (Cornwall Island) on Monday, Oct. 21, 2024 in the area of the A’nowara’ko:wa Arena.  The exact species of the wildcat is unknown. 

 

Bobcats are common in our region and pose little threat. Cougars are considerably larger, and while they are extremely shy, making them a rare sighting, they are occasionally reported in southern Ontario. Due to their size, they pose more risk to pets or livestock. Small children should be supervised if playing near wooded areas.  Cougar attacks on humans are very rare, but awareness is key.

 

While we cannot confirm which wildcat may be on Kawehno:ke, we are sharing the following safety precautions:

WILDCAT (BOBCAT OR COUGAR) SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

• 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.

 

Akwesasne Mohawk Police and MCA Environment request any sightings to be reported to AMPS Central Dispatch at 613-575-2000.