A cougar was spotted on Little Mountain in Chilliwack this week, according to the WildSafeBC Fraser Valley's community co-ordinator Lori Roberts.
"The City of Chilliwack has asked that I let you know there is a cougar on Little Mountain near the water tower," Roberts said in a post from WildSafeBC.
It's not usual for hikers or walkers to see wildlife in Chilliwack's hillside and forested areas. There are a number of strategies available for citizens to keep safe.
"Keep your backpack on. If you see a cougar, keep your eye on them, and you can throw rocks at them," she said.
WildSafeBC even recommends being "Big and loud," to scare the animal off.
"Keep your pets leashed and small children close to you. Bear spray also is effective with cougars."
The WildSafeBC official said they can even help people learn how to use the spray effectively, if need be.
Cougars are the catalyst for about 2,500 calls a year to the BC Conservation Officer Service reporting line.
"However many reported cougar sightings turn out to be animals other than cougars."
Cougar attacks are very rare, but someone meets one of the big cats, the idea is to keep calm and never to run.
"Make yourself look as large as possible and back away slowly, keeping the cougar in view, and allowing a clear exit for the cougar," according to the WildSafe info.
"If attacked, always fight back and never play dead. If travelling with small children, pick them up immediately."
To report cougars in conflict, sightings in urban areas, or a cougar showing unusual or aggressive behaviour, call the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277. Contact the local WildSafeBC co-ordinator by email: fraservalley@WildSafeBC.com.
