BEND, OR -- A cougar was spotted in Deschutes River Woods, Wednesday evening. The Sheriff's Office says someone reported seeing the big cat on a vacant lot on River Bend Drive at about 7:40 p.m.

Deputies responded and found the cougar in a residential area. After a short time, it left toward the National Forest. DCSO is in contact with Oregon State Police who are relaying information to the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The Sheriff's Office reminds everyone to stay alert, hike in groups, keep dogs on leashes, don't feed wildlife and store food in containers. If you encounter a cougar that doesn't retreat, don't run, but make noise, raise your arms and prepare to fight back. Click HERE for more information from ODFW. If you are involved in a face-to-face encounter with a cougar or any dangerous animal, call ODFW or OSP. 

File photo