A close encounter with a cougar has resulted in some camping restrictions at Waterton Lakes National Park in southern Alberta.
Parks Canada says a cougar recently approached two campers at the Bertha Bay campground and “showed interest” in their dog.
On Wednesday, the agency issued an advisory that until further notice, camping is not allowed at Bertha Bay and the Boundary Bay campgrounds.
The Bertha (Falls and Lake) Trail, Bertha Lake backcountry campground and Lakeshore Trail are staying open, but Parks Canada is asking all users to be cautious.
The agency suggests that users keep children close at hand, travel in groups, carry bear spray and know how to use it, remain alert at all times, and keep dogs on a leash.
All cougar sightings can be reported to 1-888-927-3367. More information on the cougar sighting and closure is available at the Parks Canada website.