PORTO VELHO, BRAZIL - A cougar was captured on a motion-activated camera sniffing a human trail in the district of Jaci-Paraná, in Porto Velho, Rondônia. The equipment was installed by fisherman Fábio Baca, who was carrying out an activity in the area.

Baca was heading out for a fishing trip and also aimed to record local wildlife such as tapirs, capybaras, and pacas. However, when reviewing the footage at home, a cougar appeared in the recordings.

The fisherman had placed pupunha, a fruit native to the region, to attract animals while he was fishing. “While I was fishing, it passed by, sniffed everything,” he said.

According to Baca, the area is frequently visited by sport fishing enthusiasts, and he had never encountered a cougar there before. This was also the first time he had installed a camera at the site — an experience he described as unforgettable.

Despite the scare, Fábio said he does not intend to stop visiting the area. However, he admitted that fear will be reater during future visits.

Agência Amazônia