The Pacific Rim National Park Reserve has good news and bad news.
A bear warning was lifted on Sept 4, but a cougar warning was issued on Sept. 3.
The cougar has reportedly been frequenting the Park Reserve’s Cape Beale Headlands Area over the past few weeks, according to the warning announcement.
“The area of warning includes Keeha and Tapoltos trails and beaches. Please note that currently there are also cougar in area warnings for the Pachena Bay Area, and the communities of Anacla and Bamfield,” it reads. “Removal of the warning will be determined by monitoring observed or reported cougar activity in the coming weeks/months. The goal of this warning is to reduce the probability of negative human-cougar interactions.”
Visitors to the area are urged to hike in groups and make noise while also keeping children close, remaining alert and watching for signs, like cougar tracks or scat.
Anyone who encounters a cougar should not try to run away or crouch down, but instead maintain eye contact with the animal while back away slowly.
The use of an air horn or bear spray is encouraged as well as throwing objects like sticks and stones, waving arms and looking as large as possible if the cougar continues to approach.
The bear warning rescinded on Sept. 4 had been in place at the Shorepine Bog Trail since July 8.
“The level of close and concerning bear interactions has decreased favorably over the past weeks specifically for this area. In short, the BEAR activity situational assessment for this area is now deemed to be returned to normal,” an advisory announcing the lifting of the warning states. “In the upcoming months, bear sightings/ observations are expected to steadily continue for the Long Beach Unit and surrounding areas. Please continue to remain observant and report any wildlife sightings/ observations/ reports to Parks Canada staff.”
While the bear warning has been lifted, the Park Reserve is reminding visitors that wildlife is prevalent on the West Coast at all times, so children should be kept closed and pets should be leashed at all times. Food and other attractants should never be left unattended and bears should not be approached for photo opportunities.
“If a bear cub is encountered or observed always assume the sow to be close by,” the announcement states.
Anyone who encounters a bear is encouraged to stay calm and give it lots of space while avoiding eye contact, backing away slowly and talking in a calm voice.
“Do not drop objects, clothing or food to distract the bear. Do not run,” the advisory states.
Any bear or cougar sightings in human-use areas should be reported to the Park Reserve at 250-726-3604.
“Your continued assistance in promoting human-wildlife coexistence in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is much appreciated,” the advisory reads.
