Recent sightings of a cougar on Port Moody's north shore has B.C. Conservation officers urging walkers and hikers in the area to stick close together and leash their dogs.
Port Moody has put warnings up about the wild cat but Sgt. Todd Hunter said the animal has not been aggressive and has quickly withdrawn into the forest every time it has been seen.
"There is nothing that we have that suggests that the cougar is acting aggressive or threatening," Hunter said.
Sightings have taken place in Shoreline Park and in trails around David Avenue.
Hunter said people who plan to head into the outdoors should arm themselves with knowledge about cougars and other wildlife so they can be safe and more prepared to see animals in the area.
"Learn about them," Hunter said, "The more knowledge you have about them, you're safer and the more appreciation [you'll have] for all of our wildlife."
Hunter said the biggest problem is people walking with their dogs unleashed, leaving them vulnerable to wildlife. And he notes when a scrap involving a bear or a cougar happens, the family pet is often on the losing side.
People should also walk the trails with others, make noise and keep children close.
He also recommended using a walking stick and carrying a phone in case of emergency.
If you do meet up with a cougar, don't run, Hunter said, because it sparks the cougar's attack instinct. Instead, back up slowly with arms held high.
Anyone else who is around can also yell "Bad cat! Go away!" which Hunter says seems to work in sending the big cats away, it also works for bears.
People shouldn't feed deer, either, because they attract predators such as cougars and once the deer are gone, the wild cats might turn to hunting family pets left alone outdoors.
If the animals become a threat to humans, they will have to be destroyed because of the safety risk, which is the last thing conservation officers want to do, Hunter said.
"It has happened but it's not common — and the risk is low. If people did find themselves attacked by a cougar, the best thing to do is protect your head and spine, tuck your head and protect your face and neck with your shoulders and arms, and fight back."
More information about cougars is available at WildSafeBC.com
