Saanich Police are asking people to be careful after a cougar was spotted in Rithet’s Bog for the second time in two weeks.
A group of people walking on one of the park’s trails spotted the wildcat at around 11 a.m. Tuesday morning, according to police.
All five of them believed it to be a cougar.
Animal Control officers investigated and found animal tracks in the park, but couldn’t confirm exactly which type of tracks they were due to swampy conditions.
Saanich Police spokesman Sgt. Steve Eassie said the 38-hectare park is an area officials would expect to see wildlife. A pair of the big cats were spotted in the same park on June 24.
“In both of these recent reported sightings, the animals were not acting in a predatory manner,” he said in a statement. “However, the public should be aware that there is a possibility that these animals may be present.”
The BC Conservation Service was also notified of the sighting.
Experts say if you encounter a cougar, make yourself look big, make eye contact and never turn your back on the animal.
If you spot one, call the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.
