It’s always a good idea to get to know your neighbours. Vancouver Island is home to approximately 25% of Canada’s cougar population. Cougars are solitary creatures (except females with young cubs), tend to be secretive and are rarely seen by people.

Here are some safety tips to consider if you do encounter a cougar.

• Don’t run or turn your back to the cougar.
• Make your self as big as possible – open your jacket, put your backpack over your head or open your umbrella if you have one.
• Keep calm, maintain eye contact with the cougar, back away slowly allowing a clear exit for the cougar.
• If a cougar attacks, fight back, focussing on its facial area and eyes, using sticks, rocks, your backpack, bear spray or other personal items.
• Take care of your pets by feeding them indoors, having them on a leash when hiking, and keeping your pets indoors especially at night.

Remember:  If you do sight a cougar, call the Conservation Officer Service reporting line at

(1-877-952-7277)  to report the incident.