Comox, B.C, warns of cougar sightings near suburban park

A cougar runs away before it was trapped and tranquilized in Victoria, on Monday, Oct. 5, 2015. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chad Hipolito

The Town of Comox, B.C, is posting warning signs after a cougar was spotted near a suburban park over the weekend.

An online post from the town warns residents to be cautious and keep their distance from cougars after the recent sighting near the Lancaster Park area, which is surrounded by homes in the northwest of the community.

Town spokesperson Koreen Gurak says cougars have been spotted in the Comox area and neighbouring communities over the last four weeks.

The warning says anyone who sees a cougar in an urban area or one exhibiting unusual or aggressive behaviour should contact provincial conservation officers.

The conservation group Wild Safe BC says cougars account for approximately 2,500 calls to the Conservation Officer Service every year, however many reported sightings turn out to be animals other than cougars.

It says cougar attacks are very rare and that anyone who encounters a cougar should keep calm, never run, make themselves look as large as possible and back away slowly.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 13, 2026