One of two public access trails to Ammonite Falls has since reopened following several reports of a cougar guarding its kill. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW staff

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Popular Nanaimo area trail re-opens following aggressive cougar sightings

Jan 16, 2025 | 11:42 AM

NANAIMO — A portion of hiking trail accessing popular Ammonite Falls west of Nanaimo re-opened, the Regional District announced.

A Wednesday, Jan. 15 RDN statement noted Ammonite Falls Regional Trail between the Creekside trailhead and the falls re-opened following the presence of an aggressive cougar.

A temporary closure impacting the section of trail between the end of Jameson Rd. and Ammonite Falls came into effect on Monday, Jan 6 after a cougar “displaying aggressive behaviour” was reported on the trail.

Numerous sightings were made of the cougar guarding its kill in the area, according to the RDN, resulting in warning signs posted early this year and ultimately the trail’s temporary closure.

Reports of cougar sightings, along with people reporting hearing the reclusive animals in the Nanaimo area, are periodically made to the BC Conservation Officer Service (BCCOS).

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David Karn, senior public affairs communications officer officer with the provincial Environment and Parks ministry told NanaimoNewsNOW this week despite the documented cougar sighting, officers are not seeing an uptick of cougar sightings in the Nanaimo area.

Several reports emerged over recent weeks regarding cougar sightings in other areas of Nanaimo, including near Beban Park and in the city’s south end, however none resulted in formal reports to Conservation officers.

Advice from the province on how to respond to cougar encounters are listed here.

Wildlife/human conflicts can be reported to the BCCOS call centre at 1-877-952-7277.

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