A person from Sioux Lookout is recovering in hospital after being attacked by a lynx.

The incident took place Thursday night around 11:30.

The OPP say a person had an encounter with a lynx in the Millar Crescent area and was injured.

Police officers says they patrolled the area, but were unable to locate the large cat.

If you encounter a lynx or cougar:

Never approach the animal, especially if it’s near a kill or with young.
Never offer it food.
Do not run, a cat’s instinct is to chase.
If you’re with others, stay together and act as a group.
Face the animal and talk firmly while slowly backing away.
Always leave the animal an escape route.
Do not crouch down or try to hide, instead try to appear larger.
Do not take your eyes off the animal or turn your back.
If the animal does not flee, be more assertive by shouting, waving your arms and throwing anything available.

Eliminate sources of food

Do not put meat, fish or other attractive foods in your composter.
Frequently wash garbage cans, recycling containers and their lids with a strong-smelling disinfectant.
Do not leave garbage cans outside overnight.
Secure garbage lids, clean up spilled garbage and do not leave garbage around a campsite or cottage.
Empty the grease trap from barbecues.
Feed pets indoors.

How to avoid conflicts

Consider motion-sensing lights to light all walkways around your home.
Watch for signs of animal activity such as tracks, claw marks and droppings.
Make noise as you travel through the woods – talk, sing, carry a radio.
Travel in groups.
If hiking alone, tell someone where you plan to go and what time you expect to return.
Keep dogs leashed so they do not provoke attacks by wild animals.

For more information on lynx encounters please visit: https://www.ontario.ca/page/preventing-and-managing-conflicts-lynx-bobcats-and-cougars

Should you see a lynx in a residential area and you believe there is a risk to the public, you are urged to call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or by dialing 911 if it is an emergency situation.