A second neighbourhood reporting a cougar in the neighborhood has residents on alert for wildlife on the Saanich Peninsula.
Sidney North Saanich RCMP issued an alert after residents reported a cougar spotted in a tree in the Epco Drive area on April 22 just after 5 p.m.
The large cat had perched in a tree but fled in an unknown direction before officers arrived, the detachment said in a news release.
鈥淭here was no indication that the cat was stalking any people or pets, but everyone in the area should be aware when outside with small children or animals,鈥� said Staff Sgt. Kris Clark of the BC RCMP. 鈥淚f spotted, please leave it alone and give it space. There is no need to report its whereabouts unless it鈥檚 posing an active threat to someone.鈥�
The BC Conservation Officer Service has been notified of the cougar鈥檚 presence.
It鈥檚 the second Saanich Peninsula neighbourhood to report seeing a cougar. Multiple confirmed wildcat sightings in Centennial Park and Saanichton on Monday (April 21) evening prompted a police reminder about wildlife in Central Saanich.
Conservation generally advises residents to be aware of their surroundings, keep an eye on children and pets, particularly near dawn and dusk, avoid hiking or jogging alone, and to make noise when possible.
Anyone who sees a cougar should not approach, but maintain a safe distance and back away slowly. Never run.
Usually encountered near dusk and dawn when cougars are most active, the animals are generally elusive and rarely attack humans. If a cougar attacks, fight back.
To report cougars in conflict, sightings in urban areas, or a cougar showing unusual or aggressive behaviour, call the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
