Caution: Cougar sighting

A possible cougar sighting has been reported in Mystic Vale at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, July 15. 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.