The District of Metchosin sent a plea for help to the B.C. government on Wednesday, July 31, asking them to do more about the attacks on sheep by cougars.
The letter said that between 2023 and 2024, farmers in the district experienced 61 sheep and 31 lamb kills.
Some of the attacks took place during the day and raised concerns about the safety of children and others living in the area, according to the letter.
WIldlife-livestock conflicts significantly impact small farmers operating on tight margins, said the letter.
Mollie Cameron, president of Wild Wise, said cougars are animals of opportunity and often make incredible efforts to avoid humans, but due to development and other increases in human activity.
"We need to learn how to coexist properly," said Cameron. "That means adapting our practices to the way that society evolves."
Unsecured trash and other attractants could be the root of the cougar attacks on sheep in Metchosin and Cameron re-emphasized the importance of securing garbage.
"They are opportunists. So if an opportunity is available and easy, the cougars will take advantage," Cameron said.
These animals have a very poor sense of smell and often use sight and sound to track their prey.
"If they can't see their prey, they are less likely to pursue it."
Keeping livestock in a secure pen at night is also a great way to keep them safe, as it keeps sheep out of sight, out of mind, and out of the mouths of the cougars.
"It is the best practice," Cameron said.
Access to a secure pen or barn away from prying mountain lion eyes might not always be easy for people farming in Metchosin, as the land animals are on is often leased.
"An easy solution to that, is getting a portable car shelter with a cover and having electric fencing," Cameron said.
Cougars for years had bounties placed on them and, as a result, saw their numbers dwindle, according to Cameron.
"It was kind of like a shot-on-site type deal," Cameron said. "Now there is a higher demand for co-existence."
