Urban sprawl blamed for Squamish cougar encounters

            Urban sprawl has been becoming a major problem in countries around the world. It is causing humans to expand into the territories of animals which is making them encounter each other more frequently. In British Colombia, cougars have been being seen more often around the area of Valleycliffe. In this area, a new housing development is being built where woods used to be. Most people look at the cougars as if they are invading humans’ land, but humans are really the ones that are causing all of the problems. Because the cougars are being seen close to humans, many have been being shot so that they won’t pose a threat. District Councilor Brian Raiser said, “Every time you take up more forest, we move into animals' homes and it takes some adjustment. I don't think this particular incident was related to the recent development."

 

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