A cougar sighting in Colwood Tuesday has prompted a warning from West Shore RCMP.
On Tuesday morning, a cougar sighting was reported near the 490 block of Regency Place in Colwood, prompting authorities to issue a warning to residents.
BC Conservation has been notified, and locals are advised to exercise caution if they find themselves in the area.
Report of a cougar sighting near the 490 block of Regency Place in Colwood last night. BC Conservation has been made aware, please be mindful if you're in the area given the recent sighting & check out this link for tips on what to do if you see a cougar: https://t.co/TV8Co7fIQ8
— West Shore RCMP (@WestshoreRCMP) August 1, 2023
This recent sighting is not an isolated incident.
The West Shore area has experienced several cougar encounters throughout the year, with one of the most notable being the attack on a family dog in the Bear Mountain community.
The encounter with the family dog occurred in the 2200 block of Players Drive in Langford.
According to Jennifer, the owner of Roxie, the cougar entered their fully fenced yard and attacked the dog without any provocation.
The incident left the community concerned about the cougar’s apparent aggression and raised questions about the safety of residents, especially those with pets and young children.
After the attack on Roxie, the family rushed her to Waves Veterinary Hospital for emergency surgery. Roxie is now on the mend and expected to make a full recovery.
Wildlife encounters can be unpredictable, and while cougars generally try to avoid human contact, they may become more brazen if they are hungry or feel threatened.
To reduce the risk of negative interactions with cougars, residents are advised to take some precautions:
- Keep Pets Indoors: If you live in an area where cougar sightings have occurred, it’s essential to keep your pets indoors, especially during dawn, dusk, and nighttime when cougars are most active.
- Secure Garbage and Food: Ensure that garbage cans and pet food are securely stored, as they can attract cougars and other wildlife.
- Supervise Children: Keep a close eye on children playing outdoors, particularly in areas near wooded or natural spaces.
- Hike in Groups: If you plan to hike or explore natural areas, go in groups and make noise to alert wildlife of your presence.
- Educate Yourself: Learn about cougar behavior and how to react in the event of a cougar encounter. Understanding their habits can help you stay safe.
If you spot a cougar in your area, call BC Conservation Officers at 1-877-952-7277.
