Conservation Officers believe that the cougar that was tranquilized and relocated from the James Bay area was most likely the same as that reported to have been in the south Oak Bay area earlier in the week.  While it is unlikely that there is a cougar in the Oak Bay area at this time, Vancouver Island residents should be mindful about what to do if encountering a cougar.

• Stay calm.
• Pick children up off the ground immediately
• Watch the cougar at all times as you back away slowly, doing all you can to enlarge your image.
• Do not turn your back and do not run.  To do so may trigger an instinctive attack.

Although a cougar attack is highly unlikely, it always pays to be prepared. Information and awareness are your best defenses.  Report any urban cougar sightings immediately to police.