Over the years, DPECA Executive has been advised by concerned Dean Park Estates residents about cougar sightings in and around our subdivision.
A cougar was euthanized due to attacks on four goats on the west side of John Dean Provincial Park in March 2022. The Sidney/North Saanich RCMP detachment recommends the following with regards to any future cougar sightings in our neighbourhood:
- If and when a cougar is spotted, local police and Conservation can be immediately notified via the Sidney/North Saanich RCMP non-emergency line at 250-656-3931 This will allow the appropriate authorities to effectively disseminate information via media (includes social media) to alert the general public.
- Key information to share with the local police and Conservation about cougar sightings are where, when and what direction the cougar was headed; what it looked like (e.g., how big) and its demeanour; and what it was doing [e.g., whether it was creating a dangerous situation (stalking) or whether it was just hanging out].