A large area of the Banff townsite is closed off to the public after another cougar sighting in the area over the weekend.

The north side of the town is closed off along both sides of the rail line, between Norquay Road and Compound Road, while wildlife officers investigate.

Last Friday, Parks Canada issued a cougar warning as a precaution after someone reported an encounter with one of the cats near the industrial compound in Banff.

The resource conservation manager for the Banff field unit, Bill Hunt, said a man was attacked last Thursday and originally reported the incident anonymously.

Officials were able to track down the man for more information and were told that he fended off an attack with his skateboard.

"I think he was reluctant to contact us right away because he'd be in trouble for striking an animal inside a national park. But of course, in that situation you're in defence mode and it's totally appropriate," Hunt explained Sunday.

Hunt said the man said he was listening to music through earbuds while walking when the cougar attacked.

"He was hit from behind, knocked to the ground and instantly reacted properly. With a cougar, the correct thing to do is fight back hard and convince that cougar that you're not going to be available for prey," Hunt said. "He was carrying his skateboard, so he used that skateboard in defence of himself and was able to hit the cougar with it, which stunned the animal and he was able to get away."

The man was not hurt in the incident and officials are currently tracking the cougar and hope to capture it.

On Sunday, someone spotted a cougar chasing a deer in the area so park officials have restricted access to the area.

They have set up cameras on bridges and are using hounds to try and track the cat.

Wildlife officials aren't positive if it is only one cougar but say the animal involved in the attacks exhibited predatory behavior and they are warning people to be on the lookout.

Parks Canada says people should travel in groups and keep a careful eye on children to avoid cougar encounters. People should also avoid travelling during dawn and dusk, and pets should be kept on leashes, officials say.

Carrying bear spray, making noise, and leaving the area if an animal carcass is discovered are other tips that Parks Canada says should be followed.

(With files from The Canadian Press)