A cougar deemed unsafe by conservation officers has been shot and killed in the Vancouver Island town of Sidney.
North Saanich RCMP tracked the wild cat into the town after midnight on Friday after it was spotted on Highway 17.
After the animal walked through several lawns and businesses, officers were able to corner it on the shore by the Beacon Pier.
The BC Conservation Service killed the cougar after it was deemed that "it was unsafe to tranquilize the animal."
Police issued a warning earlier this week about multiple sightings of an adult cougar in the area. While authorities don't know if the killed cougar is the same one that has been spotted around town, they are confident in their decision.
"The proximity of the two events can not be ignored," said Cpl. Chris Swain.
Area residents are being advised to keep a close eye on children and pets outside, and to stick to well-travelled routes.
Earlier this week, an 18-year-old teenager in Nanaimo was credited for her quick thinking after she thwarted a cougar attack while she was biking near a school.
Cougars are attracted to young children, possibly because of their higher-pitched voices, according to B.C.'s ministry of environment.
The agency advises people who encounter a cougar to stay calm and keep it in view. It's best to make yourself look as big as possible, and avoid fast movement.
