A cougar sighting described as credible was made Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 10:30 a.m. on a playing field at Kwalikum Secondary Schoo. (B.C. Government)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

cougar sighting

Cougar spotted at Kwalikum Secondary School, no further sign of big cat

Nov 4, 2020 | 2:43 PM

QUALIUCM BEACH — A cougar made what’s believed to be a brief appearance at a Kwalikum Secondary School playing field.

The report described by Qualicum School District Supt. Dr. Keven Elder as credible was made Wednesday, Nov. 4 at 10:30 a.m by community member.

“It was an hour later before the students were scheduled to be out and we understood that by that time the cougar would likely be somewhere else,” Dr. Elder said.

He said cougars have been spotted around their schools several times this year, including in the vicinity of elementary schools, where students have been told to temporarily stay inside.

“Sometimes we’ll determine, as was the case today, that it’s okay to carry on as usual but be aware,” Dr. Elder said.

roster shakeup

Nanaimo Clippers lose two major players to Major Junior ranks

1h ago

armed robbery

Knife-wielding man robs south Nanaimo liquor store

9h ago

Shorthanded

Clippers fall short hosting Bulldogs

16h ago

Oceanside RCMP were on site to monitor the situation, Dr. Elder said.

The cougar hadn’t been seen again as of several hours later, according to Officer Sano with the BC Conservation Officer Service.

“Cats are very elusive, they generally want to stay away from people. What we see generally are passing sightings.” Sano said.

He said cougars are typically more visible while hunting, which generally is not during daylight hours.

Conflicts with cougars or sightings in urban areas can be reported to the Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.

Advice on cougar encounters from the provincial environment ministry are available here, while reports of wildlife conflicts made to the province are listed on a constantly updated interactive map.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

On Twitter: @NanaimoNewsNOW