The public is being advised to be cautious in the Gordon Head / Mount Tolmie area after several cougar sightings have been reported.

A Saanich Police officer even came face-to-face with the wild animal while responding to an unrelated call this week.

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On Aug. 28 and Aug. 30 at 5 pm and 9:30 pm, a cougar was seen walking in Mount Tolmie Park. Police attended the area, did not locate the cougar, but did warn some people out walking their dogs of the sighting. 
 
Then, on Aug. 30 at around 2 am, officers were on an unrelated call on the Gordon Head North Park trail when an officer encountered the cougar. The cougar eventually turned and walked away down the trail towards the water.
 
The Conservation Officer Service (COS) is aware of the situation, and is monitoring cougar activity in the area. 

While it’s unclear if this is one or more cougars being spotted, in all cases the cougar was not acting aggressively.

In conjunction with the COS, police are asking the public to be aware, and to take precautions such as leashing their pets and travelling in groups when possible.

Reports can be made to the COS Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline 24/7 at 1-877-952-7277, as well as the Saanich Police at 250-475-4321.