JOHN DAY, Ore. (AP) — Two small cougars have been shot and killed in the Eastern Oregon town of John Day after one was spotted in a baseball dugout and two more were seen in a nearby backyard.
After a 911 call, Oregon State Police say officials found the first cougar Friday still near the baseball field. The Oregonian reports (http://is.gd/MqXqjM ) that a fish and wildlife trooper killed the animal because it was close to homes and people, although on the outskirts of town.
State wildlife biologist Ryan Torland said the cougar weighed about 25 to 30 pounds and appeared malnourished.
Officials used dogs to track the other two cats. A second, similarly sized cougar was shot and killed late Friday afternoon near the same park and athletic complex. Searchers spotted the third cougar but then lost its trail.
