A trail entrance at Woodhaven Regional Park in Kelowna is pictured in this photo submitted by the regional district.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED / Central Okanagan Regional District
September 16, 2020 - 3:21 PM
A cougar warning has gone up at a regional park in Kelowna.
Warning signs have been posted advising visitors to Woodhaven Nature Conservancy Regional Park about recent cougar activity and the regional district reported the sightings to Conservation Officer Service, according to a regional district press release. The regional park is off Raymer Road in Kelowna.
While human conflicts with these large cats are extremely rare and an attack is unlikely, it pays to be prepared, according to the regional district.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy recommends that people travel in groups of two or more and that you make enough noise so you don’t surprise a cougar.
Carry a sturdy walking stick that can be used as a weapon if necessary and keep children and pets close and under control.
If you encounter a cougar, stay calm, talk to it in a confident voice, pick up all children off the ground and never turn your back on the animal. Back away slowly, remaining upright and do all you can to make yourself look larger. Give the cougar an avenue to escape, according to the ministry.
Dogs must be leashed at all times and must remain on designated trails in regional parks.
If you observe a cougar or bear within any regional park contact the parks services office at 250-469-6232 and the Conservation Officer Service number at 1-877-952-7277.
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