The Conservation Office has confirmed three cougar sightings in the 100 Mile House area.
“There is a cougar that has been seen in close proximity to the town of 100 Mile and it is in the Blackstock subdivision area so we’ve been getting a few calls on that,” said officer James Zucchelli. There hasn’t been any conflict yet.
Through descriptions of the cougar from the people who have called in the reports, Zucchelli believes that the cats are displaying behaviours such as curiosity and possibly hunting small animals such as domestic cats or small dogs.
According to the reports, the cougar was seen moving through the area before taking off into the trees on the Horse Lake ridge above the neighbourhood.
“That’s where our concern is. If cougars become used to being around residential areas they become habituated and people with their small pets or livestock that are left unattended, they’re basically subject to being predated upon by a cougar,” said Zuchelli.
It’s recommended that property owners be vigilant, keeps pets on leashes and keep a look out for tracks. Keeping areas lit and keeping walkways clear is also something residents should be aware of.
There was also a reported sighting near Save-On-Foods on Feb. 4 and the Conservation Office responded but did not see anything.
“If we do get a conflict with this particular cat we will action it,” said Zucchelli.
People should call the Conservation Office at 1-877-952-7277 to report a wildlife sighting as it happens so the office can respond in the appropriate manner.