A couple of cougar sightings in Nanaimo had RCMP and Conservation Officers staking out an area near Drivers Lake on Thursday.
Conservation Officer Troy Sterling says they had to two reports between 11:00am and 11:30am of sightings in the Labieux Rd and Shenton Rd area. One sighting was of a single cougar and the other was of three cougars. He says they’re assuming it was a female with two kits.
He says the cougars are likely looking for food, and the abundance of rabbits and deer make Nanaimo especially attractive. He says they’ve had calls about cougars spotted at Bowen Park, Buttertubs Marsh and at Divers Lake.
Sterling says if you do encounter a cougar, back away slowly, make yourself look as big as possible and maintain eye contact. Don’t scream or run away. If you encounter a bear, don’t look it in the eyes because they’ll perceive it as a threat.
Any encounters with cougars or bears in Nanaimo should be reported to Conservation Officers by calling 1-877-952-7277.
