The latest report of a sighting of a wild beast came from Lebanon on Sunday morning.

Police said a walker on Mark Slough Trail spotted what looked like a mountain lion or cougar about 9:35 a.m. It ducked into the trees near Irvine Park.

On Friday, a Clackamas deputy caught a cougar leaping across the road with his dash cam. There have also been sightings of cougars in Tigard as well.

No one has been attacked or injured.

Cougars, which are also known as mountain lions and pumas, are the second biggest cat in North America after jaguars. They can weigh up to 220 pounds and run as fast as 50 miles an hour.

They don't roar but do purr like pussycats, though they're anything but. Typically, cougars prey on deer, elk, moose, mountain goats, and wild sheep.

People should be cautious around them. Do not panic but do make yourself appear as large as possible, by putting your hands high in the air. Pick up children and pets but do so by squatting and do not turn your back on the creatures.

Back away slowly. Sudden movement or running can trigger a chase response.

-- Lynne Terry