JACKSONVILLE, Ore. — Police in Jacksonville are warning people in the area to use extra caution after a reported cougar encounter in Jacksonville Forest Park.
According to police, a hiker reported running into a cougar on Sofie's Trail in the park on Monday morning.
"The hiker had a small airhorn with them and when it was blown, the cougar scurried up a tree," Jacksonville Police said in a post.
Although the hiker in question appears to have been both aware and prepared, the Jacksonville Police Department wants to make sure others do the same.
"Remember, if you are hiking alone, always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return," the agency said.