(UPDATE: Jan. 26 @ 12:45 pm): The COS has now determined that the cougar attack on a man north of Whistler was predatory.
The cougar was a young, emaciated male, conservation officers explained.
"While such attacks are rare, a highly motivated cougar desperate for food is more likely to attack a human," the COS added.
"The COS would like to emphasize that the victim took the right steps in the event of such an encounter and fought back against the cougar, which likely saved his life."
COS staff remain on site at the man's property and will "continue to monitor the situation" and guarantee public safety.
The service added: "[Officers] believe the offending cougar was the one put down yesterday and the public is not at risk. The public is urged to be prepared in case of any wildlife encounters.
"If you are confronted by a cougar, make yourself look as large as possible and keep the cougar in front of you at all times. Never run or turn your back on a cougar, as the sudden movement may provoke an attack. If you are attacked, fight back."
(Original story: Jan. 26 @ 6:15 am): A man is in hospital with serious injuries after being mauled by a cougar on Monday afternoon.
It happened near the man’s property in the Soo Valley, to the north of Whistler, at about 3:30 pm.
The 69-year-old “was mauled by a cougar and suffered major injuries to his face and hand,” the Conservation Officer Service (COS) said.
He was taken to hospital in an ambulance and is now thought to be in a stable condition.
Whistler RCMP later killed the cougar.
The COS said it does not believe there is a risk to the public.
