Wildlife Alert - Cougar activity continues in Garibaldi Highlands

The District of Squamish, Conservation Officer Service and WildSafeBC would like to alert residents living in the Garibaldi Highlands area of Squamish that two cougar sightings were reported during the morning hours of 6 a.m. and 10 a.m. October 2, 2017. The cougar was spotted on Montrose Way and also on Jura Crescent heading towards Perth Drive.

The cougar has not shown any aggressive behaviour however it is recommended that residents keep pets indoors and keep children supervised. A photograph taken from a resident indicates this is an adult cougar. Garibaldi Highlands Elementary School staff have been informed.

Best practices

• Cougars are most active between dusk and dawn.
• Cougar attacks are rare but children and small pets are most at risk in cougar country and should not be left unattended.
• Domestic cats can be prey to both cougars and coyotes and should be kept indoors.
• Cougars may also prey on small mammals that feed on fruit and bird seed left outdoors.
• Chicken coops require an electric fence (as per District of Squamish Bylaws).
• Securing attractants is essential to avoid conflicts and encourage predators to return to the wild to seek food elsewhere.

If you encounter a cougar

Ensure that your family knows what to do if you encounter a cougar. Make sure you stay calm and never run or turn your back. Make yourself look big and reinforce that you are human and not an easy target. Back out of the area and seek shelter.

For more information on cougar safety and how to reduce conflicts visit wildsafebc.com/cougar

Please report any further sightings to:

Conservation Officer 24 hour hotline
1-877-952-7277 (RAPP) or #7277 on your cell phone

October 2, 2017