A cougar was spotted at the University of Victoria less than 12 hours before Prime Minister Justin Trudeau was due to visit the campus for an announcement.
Trudeau was at UVic Friday morning to make a research and education-related announcement following the introduction of the 2024 federal budget.
UVic said there was a reported cougar sighting around 10 p.m. Thursday in Mystic Vale, a 11.6-acre wooded area adjacent to student residences.
It’s the second cougar sighting reported there in a month, after an April 4 sighting.
The university has issued a warning to trail users.
In the event of a cougar encounter, the B.C. Conservation Officer Service advises keeping the animal in front of you at all times. Running or turning your back is not advised.
If a cougar shows interest or begins following you, respond with aggression and maintain eye contact. Increase your profile by raising your hands, the service says.
Anyone who spots a cougar anywhere on campus is asked to call campus security at 250-721-7599.
Cougar sightings can also be reported to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).
