File photo courtesy CBC.
A man on an early morning dog walk Saturday on the 700-block of Lily Avenue says he spotted a cougar in the shrubs on his property.
Saanich police say they responded around 1:00 a.m. and that the man was taking his dog out for a nature visit when he spotted a large golden/brown cougar head protruding from the bushes.
He picked up his dog and rushed inside and contacted police. Officers searched the man’s backyard and neighbouring residents along nearby streets but were unable to find the mountain lion.
They did spot fresh, large paw prints along the wooden patio stairs of the man’s residence, which they say were consistent to those of a cougar.
Officials say they are not advising of the situation to cause alarm as there is no imminent risk but hope the incident is a reminder that due to the enhanced deer activity there is a possibility of more cougars being present.
Officers are advising the public to:
- Make noise prior to leaving your home in the early morning hours
- Keep your cat and dog food, and anything else that may attract wild animals
inside your home - Never approach a cougar
- Do not turn your back on a cougar
- Stay calm
CHEK News
