North Vancouver residents were surprised to find a cougar eyeing their dogs in the backyard early Saturday morning.
The feline was spotted in Upper Lynn Valley at the intersection of Irene Place and Underwood Avenue. B.C. Ministry of Environment conservation officer Simon Gravel received the call.
“The residents were alarmed that the cougar was staring intently and not moving,” said Gravel, noting that two small dogs and a German Shepherd live at the home. “By the stare of the cougar, it looked like it was waiting to pounce, like it was on the hunt.”
The cougar was initially behind a fence, adds Gravel, but police were called when it entered the backyard.
By the time both the authorities and Gravel arrived, the cougar had fled the scene. No further sightings have been reported.
“Cougars are common in this area, but it’s uncommon to see them like this,” said Gravel. “I spoke to another neighbor who has lived in this area for 30 years, and he has never seen one. Cougars indicate a healthy ecosystem -- but we don’t want them hunting in backyards.”
The sighting is a warning for people to watch their children and pets, adds Gravel.
“If you see a cougar, don’t approach it,” he cautions. “Make yourself as big as possible, make a lot of noise, pick up a stick…you want to make it clear you aren’t prey.”
Residents are encouraged to report all wildlife sightings to the Ministry of Environment 24/7 line at 1-877-952-7277.
