Caution signs put up at Dobbs Park
By Brian M. Boyce
The Tribune-Star
TERRE HAUTE — Cougar concerns have officials urging caution in area parks after another sighting near Dobbs Park.
Eddie Bird, superintendent of Terre Haute Parks and Recreation, issued a notice Wednesday making the public “aware of a cougar sighting in Dobbs Park.”
The memo also urges visitors to use caution in the Deming Park vicinity.
A city animal control officer reported seeing a cougar Monday morning around Ohio Boulevard and Brown Avenue.
Individuals who see the cougar are directed to call 911.
Bird said the parks are still open, but he wants people to be aware.
“We still want people to come out to the park. Just to be safe,” he said.
In Dobbs Park, Tess Wade, assistant curator of the Native American Museum, was posting signs advising the public of the sighting.
Parks naturalist Carissa Lovett said she has received calls over the years about a cougar in the area.
“I’ve just had too many sightings within the general vicinity,” she said when asked if she believes the animal to be around. “I’d love to see it.”
A cougar who escaped from the Exotic Feline Rescue in Clay County two years ago could be the same one here, she said, but no one can know for sure.
Cougars are shy animals and those walking the trails should make some noise while out there, she said, noting that people should be aware of their surroundings anytime, anyway.
“I’d be much more afraid of people than the cougar,” she said.
Brian Boyce can be reached at 812-231-4253 or brian.boyce@tribstar.com.
http://www.tribstar.com/archivesearch/local_story_056231132.html
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