Cougar sighting prompts warning to Parksville residents after livestock killed

The City of Parksville has issued a warning to residents after recent cougar activity reports. 

The cougar was reported in the area southeast of Shelly Road and Stanford Avenue East and west of Martindale Road.

According to City officials, the cougar is believed to be responsible for two livestock deaths in that region. 

The BC Conservation Officer Service (COS) has been notified of the situation and are actively working towards a solution. 

Campgrounds and golf courses in the vicinity have also been notified of the recent activity. 

The City is encouraging residents and visitors to be aware of the following tips and guidelines for a cougar encounter:

• Remain calm and never run
• Make yourself look as large as possible and back away slowly
• Maintain eye contact, look big, make noise/yell and be assertive
• Keep the cougar in view and allow a clear exit for them
• Make noise in wooded areas so they know of your presence
• Watch for cougar tracks and signs such as scratched trees, scat, food caches or unconsumed prey covered with vegetation
• If you encounter food caches and/or fresh tracks, leave the area immediately
• If going hiking or walking, travel in a group
• Carry bear spray

Parents and guardians are also being encouraged to teach their children best practices for a cougar encounter.

If children are playing outdoors, they should play in groups and should not be left unsupervised. It is also encouraged to have a dog nearby children playing because a dog can see, smell and hear a cougar sooner than a human. 

For pet safety, it is important to be aware that off leash dogs can attract cougars and bears, increasing the chances of an attack. 

Other deterrents to cougar incidents include keeping a radio or music playing, making sure children are home before dusk and stay indoors until after dawn.

If livestock is killed or injured, residents in the region are encouraged to call COS at 1-877-952-7277.