Adult cougars have been sighted in Osoyoos recently and the RCMP is warning local residents to be on the lookout.
The sightings were reported in two different parts of town on September 29 and 30.
Police say it’s possible there have been other sightings that weren’t reported.
Residents are warned to be vigilant when walking, especially with young children and pets.
RCMP said they received a call on Monday, Sept. 29 around 8:30 p.m. of a cougar sitting near Magnolia Place at Destiny Beach Resort on the west shore of Osoyoos Lake.
The cougar was chased off by a dog, who returned uninjured, but had blood on its mouth. Patrols of the area failed to locate the cougar, but local schools were advised.
The following ev-ening at around 11:30 p.m., a woman walking her dog on the East Bench encountered a cougar standing in front of her. The incident occurred near 39th Street and 38th Avenue.
The cougar stood its ground, growling for about 15 minutes and only retreated after stones were thrown at it.
The B.C. Conservation Service has been advised.
The cougar is the largest cat native to B.C. The average male weighs 125 pounds and average female weighs 100 pounds. Large males may measure up to nine feet in length, including a 30-inch tail, according to the B.C. Ministry of Environment.
It is distinct from the much smaller bobcat, which can weigh between 30 and 40 pounds and has a stubby tail.
Bobcats were sighted in Osoyoos last month.
The public is asked to report any further cougar sightings to 911 or Osoyoos RCMP at 250-495-7236.
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