A face-to-face encounter with a cougar is just one of the recent sightings in Saanich.
There have been several recent sightings in the Gordon Head/Mount Tolmie area, prompting a warning from the Saanich Police Department.
On Aug. 28 and 30, a cougar was seen walking in Mount Tolmie Park. Police attended but did not locate the animal. While there, officers did warn people out walking their dogs of the sightings, which occurred at 5 and 9:30 p.m.
The department was on an unrelated call at approximately 2 a.m. on Aug. 30 when an officer on the Gordon Head North Park trail came face-to-face with a cougar. The cat eventually turned and walked away down the trail towards the water.
The Saanich Police Department said it is unclear if this is one or more cats but in all cases, the cougar was not acting aggressively.
The Conservation Officer Service has been notified and is monitoring cougar activity in the area. Officers will respond as necessary to ensure public safety.
In conjunction with the Conservation Officer Service, police are asking the public to be aware and take precautions, such as leashing pets and travelling in groups when possible.
For more tips, go to wildsafebc.com.
Sightings can be reported at 1-877-952-7277 or through the Saanich Police Department by calling 250-475-4321.
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