[aigel]

Generally I would not change any of my behavior. Only exception would be to keep kids close when outdoors which isn't a bad idea overall. Especially in CA.

The problem in CA is that they haven't been hunted in decades and they are at max capacity. This means they compete for space and cats are pushed into towns and cities. They hammer the deer herd and when they run out of deer they may get creative. Usually it is only someone's pet goat - usually.

I'd rather have fewer cougars in the woods. There isn't anything gained by having them around at max capacity. Only risk and making people uneasy. Contrary to common belief, cougars are not an endangered species, they are listed as "LC" least concern, just like any average animal out there like a tree squirrel.

G