Bear or Cougar Sightings

Citizens often call the Issaquah Police Department to report bear or cougar sightings in the city limits of Issaquah and Snoqualmie. If a citizen reports a sighting only, we refer the caller to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife informational websites listed below and the following non-emergency phone number: 1 800 477 6224

Information on living with black bears is available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/blkbear/blkbear.htm.

More information on living with cougars is available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/wlm/game/cougar/cougar.htm.

In the event of an actual encounter, WDFW offers the following advice:

If a bear is encountered, don't run. Pick up small children, stand tall, wave your arms above your head and shout. Do not approach the animal and be sure to leave it an escape route. Try to get upwind of the bear so that it can identify you as a human and leave the area.

If a cougar is encountered, stop, stand tall and don’t run. Pick up small children. Do not approach the animal. Try to appear larger than the cougar. Never take your eyes off the animal or turn your back. Do not crouch down or try to hide. If the animal displays aggressive behavior, shout, wave your arms and throw rocks. If the cougar attacks, fight back aggressively and try to stay on your feet.

Department of Fish and Wildlife personnel respond to cougar and bear sightings when there is any threat to public safety or property. In the case of an emergency, dial 911 for a police response.

To report a dangerous wildlife incident, please call 1-877-933-9847 or 911