Officers, both police and conservation, are on the lookout for a cougar in Saanich after it exhibited “concerning” behaviour.
Amid several reports over the previous 24 hours, Saanich police officers spotted the cougar in the 3800-block of Rowland Avenue on May 14 around 10 p.m., the department said in a news release.
The public reported seeing it cross Highway 17 and last reported on the Lochside Trail between Darwin Avenue and Saanich Road.
“The public is warned to use caution in this area as the behaviour of the cougar is concerning,” Saanich Police Department said.
BC Conservation Service and officers are continuing to search for the animal.
The BC Conservation Officer Service 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.
Because of this animal’s behaviour, police advise anyone who encounters it to walk away slowly and contact 911 and the BC Conservation Service at 1-877-952-7277.
