Image Credit: FACEBOOK/District of Lake Country
April 30, 2021 - 4:21 PM
The District of Lake Country is warning residents to be wary of a cougar spotted in the area.
A cougar was seen today, April 30, in the hills above the Woodsdale Packing House Park on Woodsdale Road, according a post on the district's Facebook page.
"We share our natural surroundings with cougars who have large territories. Please be aware of your surroundings. If you encounter a cougar, keep calm. Make yourself look as large as possible and back away slowly, keeping the cougar in view, and allowing a clear exit for the cougar. Pick up children and small pets immediately. Never run or turn your back - sudden movements may provoke an attack," the post reads.
Last week there was a cougar sighting in the Longspoon Bay area of Vernon.
Cougars account for approximately 2,500 calls to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service reporting line every year, however many reports turn out to be animals other than cougars, according to WildSafeB.C.
To reduce human-cougar conflicts, keep pets indoors, especially at night. Cats and dogs that are left to free-range can become easy prey targets. Feed pets indoors as uneaten pet food can attract cougars and other cougar prey species such as rodents and raccoons.
For more information on cougars, visit WildSafeB.C.'s website.
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