Cougar spotted in Coldstream; public not at risk

VERNON – The B.C. Conservation Officer Service doesn't appear to be too worried about reports of a cougar in the Coldstream area early this morning, Oct. 31.

Conservation Officer Ken Owens says the area where the cougar was sighted is "adjacent to good cougar habitat."

"It's not unusual for us to have cougar sightings nocturnally in this area," Owens says.

He says the cat hasn't jeopardized publich safety and there haven't been any reports that the animal was hunting pets or livestock in the area.

Safety guidelines issued by the Conservation Service say seeing a cougar does not mean imminent danger. The guidlines say to watch the animal's behaviour and then respond accordingly, adding cases of cougars attacking humans are extremely rare.

Anytime a cougar is encountered or a sighting occurs, the Conservation Service reminds the public to call the Report All Poachers and Polluters or RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277. Officers can assess the cougar's behaviour and ensure the proper precautions are taken to protect people, pets and domestic animals that may be in the area.   

To read up on past cougar sightings and encounters, click here.

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