Cougar sighting in Mystic Vale

A cougar sighting has been reported in Mystic Vale around 10 pm on Thursday, April 18. Please be aware of your surroundings and use caution while using the trails or wooded areas.

If you see a cougar anywhere on campus, please call Campus Security at 250-721-7599.

This is the time of year when occasional cougar sightings are reported on the UVic campus.

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.

If you encounter a cougar, it will likely run away; however, in the event of an encounter you should take the following steps:

• Never run or turn your back on a cougar.
• Always watch the cougar and know where it is.
• Give the cougar room to escape.
• Pick up nearby children and small household pets.
• Raise your arms to look bigger.
• Act aggressively, and if possible throw rocks or sticks at the cougar.