Saanich police are warning the public about several recent cougar sightings in the Gordon Head/Mount Tolmie area, including one where a cougar came face-to-face with an officer.
The close encounter came about 2 a.m. Wednesday when police were on an unrelated call at the Gordon Head North Park trail, between San Juan and San Pedro avenues.
The cougar eventually turned and walked away.
Other sightings were reported in Mount Tolmie Park on Monday at 5 p.m. and Wednesday at 9:30 p.m.
Police attended and did not locate a cougar, but warned people in the area walking their dogs.
The B.C. Conservation Officer Service is aware of the sightings and is monitoring cougar activity.
It is unclear whether more than one cougar is involved but police said no aggression was seen in the incidents.
People are advised to take precautions like leashing pets and travelling in groups. More tips can be found at wildsafebc.com.
Any other cougar sightings can be reported to the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) hotline at 1-877-952-7277 or Saanich police at 250-475-4321.
