A cougar responsible for killing four goats on a North Saanich property overnight has been euthanized, according to the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS).
In a statement to Victoria Buzz, the COS says the male cougar was put down on Tuesday—after its killing spree fell under Category 1 of BC’s Human-Cougar Conflict Response Guidelines.
The owner of the goats posted a warning on Facebook this morning stating his animals were killed on a property near John Dean Provincial Park.
According to the COS, cougars in this category “pose a serious public safety threat” and, if an investigation deems fit, will be euthanized using humane and efficient methods.
“The COS encourages all livestock owners to protect their animals from predators by locking them in a barn at night, installing electric fencing and using guardian dogs,” the COS said.
The service adds that “good animal husbandry keeps wildlife wild and safe.” It’s also pointing to guidelines posted on its website that highlight what to do when encountering a cougar.
If a cougar poses an immediate threat or danger to public safety, the COS encourages people to call its Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1 (877) 952-7277.
