Residents of San Juan County have reported multiple possible sightings of a cougar this week, prompting local law enforcement to alert the community and collaborate with wildlife officials.
The first report came in on the morning of Monday, August 4, when someone contacted the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, relaying a woman’s account of spotting a mountain lion along White Point Road near Roche Harbor. That same day, another resident said his wife encountered a cougar while walking their dogs at the Roche Harbor Quarry, estimating the animal was just 30 yards away.
By Tuesday night, the sheriff’s office had received a third report. This time, a caller described hearing movement and noticing “a pair of glowing eyes low to the ground” while scanning the area with a flashlight—raising further suspicions about a possible cougar presence.
In response, the sheriff’s office has reached out to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to share the reported activity. Authorities are urging anyone who believes they’ve seen a cougar to report the sighting directly to WDFW, as accurate data collection is essential for monitoring.
So far, no photographic evidence has been submitted, and law enforcement has confirmed that no cougar-related injuries or attacks have been reported. Officials have stated they will work closely with WDFW should any verifiable proof emerge.
