Trapped cougar in northern Sask. draws mixed reaction

By Nicole Reis

A photo circulating on social media has sparked mixed opinions about a cougar trapped in northern Saskatchewan last month.

A licensed trapper caught the animal in a power snare sometime between Dec. 18 and Dec. 21 near Maka Pasture, according to Saskatchewan Conservation officers.

“There have been numerous people that have taken their picture with it,” said Glen Kurjata, a conservation officer service inspector in Meadow Lake.

While it could not be confirmed if the photo circulating on Twitter was that of the trapper, Kurjata said the animal was lawfully captured.

Kurjata said cougars that are inadvertently caught through a snare must be reported to the Ministry of Environment. Previous legislation required animals to be turned into the ministry, though changes to legislation within the last two years allow northern fur conservation trappers to keep the animals themselves.

“Cougars are a protected species but they are allowed for a trapper. If a cougar is trapped inadvertently by a trapper they must contact the ministry to report it. This one was lawfully reported,” Kurjata said.

Kurjata said there isn’t an investigation into the rare capture and the animal was not shot but likely perished in the power snare.