The University of Victoria is warning visitors to use caution while using campus trails after a cougar sighting Thursday (April 4).
The cat was spotted around 8:45 p.m. in the wooded Mystic Vale which coincides with the dusk and dawn habits of cougars.
Cougar sightings at UVic and other rural areas of Greater Victoria are not uncommon this time of year.
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While cougars are generally shy and elusive animals and rarely attack humans, a hungry cougar may come into contact with people during its search for food, usually in the hours between dusk and dawn when cougars are most active.
In the event of a cougar encounter, WildSafeBC advises picking up any children, acting big and slowly backing away to give the cougar a clear escape route.
If the cougar follows, respond aggressively by making loud noises, maintaining eye contact and grabbing any nearby sticks and rocks to use as weapons. If a cougar attacks, fight back.
Conservation says it will continue to monitor cougar activity in the area and will respond as necessary to ensure public safety. Reports can be called in to 1-877-952-7277.
Anyone who sees a cougar at UVic is asked to call Campus Security at 250-721-7599.
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