Where you may see them
Rarely seen; forested edges, rocky areas, and deer habitat
Jasper Wildlife
Cougars in Jasper
What to know about cougars in Jasper National Park: behaviour, diet, safe viewing, and responsible photography.
Animal Guide
Cougars in Jasper.
This page gives visitors quick, practical information about cougars and how to watch or photograph them without putting people or wildlife at risk.
Diet
Deer and other mammals.
Safe distance
100 m recommended for predators. Use a long lens, binoculars, or photograph the animal in its natural environment rather than moving closer.
Safety rules
- If you see a cougar, do not run. Pick up small children, make yourself look big, back away slowly, and report concerning encounters.
- Never feed, bait, call, chase, surround, or block wildlife.
- Do not stop in traffic lanes or create a wildlife jam.
- If viewing from the road, stay in your vehicle when possible and pull fully off only where safe and legal.
- Keep pets controlled and never let them approach wildlife.
- Report unsafe or aggressive encounters to Parks Canada Dispatch when appropriate.
Photo tips
- Use a telephoto lens or phone zoom from a safe distance.
- Include the landscape to show the animal’s natural environment.
- Never use food, sounds, calls, or movement to get a reaction.
- Do not put people, children, or pets in the frame close to wildlife.
- If the animal changes behaviour because of you, you are too close.
Respect wildlife: A good photo is never worth stressing an animal, risking injury, blocking roads, or breaking park rules.
Official Information
Read Parks Canada safety guidance.
Use these official links for current and detailed wildlife information.
