Conservation Service responds to North Okanagan cougar incident

VERNON – Traps are set for a cougar that killed an alpaca yesterday in Vernon.

Conservation officer Tanner Beck says the isolated incident happened in the area of Silver Star Road and L & A Road yesterday, May 4.

Conservation is not aware of any further conflicts between the cougar and area pets and livestock.

Because the cougar is no longer focussing on its natural prey, conservation officers made the decision to trap it, Beck says.

The cougar hasn’t shown any aggression towards humans and he says there is no reason for people to be concerned.

The large cats are not uncommon in the area, and conflicts do arise on occasion, Beck says.

“Just by the nature of where we live with green space all around us,” he says.

In general, the Conservation Service recommends keeping animals secured at night when predators are most active. You can read more about cougars, what to do if you encounter one, and how to reduce conflicts with pets and livestock here.

Wildlife incidents can be reported to the B.C. Conservation Officer Service’s 24/7 call center Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) toll free line at 1-877-952-7277, cellular dial #7277 or online.

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