Photo courtesy of Nathan Comptone

For instance, one decided to investigate the underground parking garage of the Empress Hotel - at least he knew quality when he saw it; another crashed through the window of a basement suite near downtown; others prefer the treed Oak Bay area and suburban neighborhoods that reach into undeveloped land.

For those of you visiting Victoria and going on hikes in Island parks or camping in Goldstream Park or any other wilderness area, it's something you need to be well aware of. Cougars kill. In fact, sadly, there are one or more killings and several maulings each year in British Columbia and the province of Alberta. The most recent death was that of a woman on a ski trail in Banff, Alberta where two other attacks the same week were reported. Small dogs are a magnet for cougars, as are young children. In the wilder parts of Vancouver Island, there are times children cannot play outside due to cougar sightings.

So, if you plan to take in some of our wilderness, and not so wilderness, here are some things you should know. The cougar is strong - it can take down big game. It is solitary and strongly territorial and sees you as prey or as invading its territory. It needs its own undisturbed wilderness with plenty to eat available. Cougars - whose colourings range from reddish-brown to grey-brown and have long tails - like to silently stalk their prey, then pounce from behind or even from a tree, so be aware of your surroundings at all times.

Photo courtesy of Nathan Comptone

Don't let children wander away from you or go into the bush. Never turn your back on a cougar. If a cougar confronts you, make yourself look as big as possible by standing tall, opening your arms out, etc. Wave your arms and yell. Do not make eye contact - it will be seen as an act of aggression. If you have small children or a dog along, pick them up as quickly as possible. (It's better not to take dogs with you into the wilderness - they attract bears). Back away slowly. If possible, travel with a group, never alone.

People have survived cougar attacks. If you are attacked, fight back. Try to not let the cougar get behind you. It will go for your neck. For an excellent web site with cougar information go to http://members.nbci.com/_XOOM/comptone/cougar.htm

For safety anytime remember these important hiking tips:
1. Know the trail: read maps, brochures and information panels
2. Allow time to return before dark
3. Don't hike alone
4. Let someone know where you are going and when you will be back
5. Stay on designated trails - it's easy to get lost by getting turned around
6. If you do get lost, stay calm, make yourself visible and stay where you are until help arrives.

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