This week has already brought several reports about black bears roaming the neighbourhoods in the Greater Victoria area and now, cougar sightings can be added to the list.
West Shore RCMP has confirmed Thursday that they’ve received “several” calls related to cougar sightings in the View Royal area. The calls came in the early morning around 6:00 a.m.
Police have referenced the intersection of Stewart Avenue and Island Highway, where the cougar was spotted last.
According to RCMP, BC Conservation Services has been notified and since earlier this morning, no further calls have been received.
Police continue to remind the public to not approach wild animals as they can be dangerous.
Earlier this week, multiple black bears were reportedly seen in areas including View Royal, Langford, and Saanich.
One black bear in Langford was determined by Conservation officers to have become habituated to garbage, resulting in euthanization.
Residents in the View Royal area have also reported sightings of a black bear on two different days this week.
This is also isn’t the first time cougars have been spotted in the Greater Victoria area during the COVID-19 pandemic. Last month, a cougar was seen roaming backyards in the Colwood area.
Officials are asking residents that if wildlife is spotted in your neighbourhood, call the BC Conservation Officer Service RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277.
Graham Cox
