Cougars on the Loose: Multiple Sightings Near UVic and South Valley Park!

Residents and students in Saanich are on high alert following multiple cougar sightings over the weekend. The alarming encounters have raised concerns about wildlife interaction in urban areas, particularly at the University of Victoria (UVic) campus.

On Saturday night at around 8 p.m., a cougar was spotted in Parking Lot 10, close to the Phoenix Theatre on the UVic campus. This marks the third cougar sighting reported at the university just this year. The university has responded with a safety alert, advising trail users to be particularly vigilant during this time of year when such wildlife encounters are more common.

In an official statement, UVic noted, “This is the time of year when occasional cougar sightings are reported on the UVic campus.” They urged anyone who sees a cougar to immediately contact campus security at 250-721-7599.

The situation escalated on Sunday when a cougar cub was seen in South Valley Park, near Interurban Road at approximately 5:15 p.m. Reports suggest that an adult cougar may have been close by, causing Saanich police to issue a caution to local residents. Thankfully, no further sightings were reported, and conservation officers have been notified to monitor the situation.

Residents in the affected areas are encouraged to stay alert, particularly when walking with children or pets. In an event of a cougar encounter, the British Columbia Conservation Officer Service provides crucial guidelines: always keep the cougar in sight, do not run away, and respond assertively if the animal shows interest.

Safety experts recommend making yourself appear larger by raising your hands and maintaining eye contact with the cougar. However, if cornered, it's essential to be aggressive in order to assert dominance and deter the animal.

As our communities expand into wildlife territories, awareness and preparation are vital. Stay informed about wildlife encounters in your area – you never know when these majestic yet dangerous creatures might appear close to home!