Trail and Greater District RCMP received information last week that a cougar had been captured via a surveillance camera on Laburnum Drive, in Glenmerry.
Trail RCMP recommend taking precautions, such as keeping pets inside at night.
Also known as a mountain lion, puma or panther, the cougar (Puma concolor) is the largest of the three wild cats in Canada. They are strict carnivores that primarily feed on deer.
These cats are light brown in colour and are quickly identified by their compact head and a long heavy tail which is about one-third the length of their body and has a black tip.
Cougars account for approximately 2,500 calls to the conservation office service reporting line every year; however, WildSafeBC says that many reported cougar sightings turn out to be animals other than cougars.
Cougar attacks are very rare, WildSafeBC advises, but if you encounter a cougar, keep calm and never 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.
If attacked, WildSafeBC advises, “always fight back and never ‘play dead.’”
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.
Read more: #RCMP Briefs
Read more: #Local News
Contact