QUILCENE — An injured cougar was killed by state officers after the cat was struck by a car just north of Quilcene on Monday afternoon.
Washington State Patrol Trooper Krista Hedstrom said the 100-pound female cougar was crossing U.S. Highway 101 around 2:45 p.m. when a blue Dodge Neon driven by Danielle L. Keifer, 30, of Quilcene struck the animal.
Keifer was uninjured in the crash, and her vehicle sustained minimal damage.
However, the cougar was mortally wounded, according to Department of Fish and Wildlife Sgt. Phil Henry.
Henry said he and a State Patrol trooper shot the cougar four times.
“The cougar was mortally wounded and thrashing around and screaming in the ditch,” Henry said. “In all, we put four shots in the cougar’s head, and it finally died.”
Henry said the area of Highway 101 near Milepost 291 appears to be a popular crossing for the big cats.
“When we were there, a second cougar crossed the road as well,” he said.
“Also, I have seen cougars cross in that area before. I would be willing to say there are multiple cougars in that area.”
Monday’s incident was the latest involving cougars in the southeast Jefferson County area.
Last week, a logger near Lake Leland reported being confronted by three of the cats.
And two West Leland Valley Road reported that a cougar killed two young goats from their barn.
Anyone who spots a cougar and feels threatened can contact Sgt. Henry of the Department of Fish and Wildlife at 360-301-0255.
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Reporter Erik Hidle can be reached at 360-385-2335 or at erik.hidle@peninsuladailynews.com.
