you could Howl first like normal. i will sunday. when i cougar call i start out with a woodpecker sound for 10 minute's or so. rustle up the bird's and maybe a bobcat quick. then i play goat in distress for 10 to 15 minute's. then cougar in heat for 2 to 3 minute's. then back to goat in distress or fawn. and i mix hand calling in that is using a foxpro Fury and hand call's. when i use jut a hand call. i use mainly distress. in jan and feb i howl to just not to much. you can over howl very easy i only do a couple. if you get one close work him like a bull elk. copy him if need be and you can get closer. if your after cougar Howling first would be fine. Rick