Nelson police say a cougar was seen at Lakeside Park at about 11 p.m. Thursday.
Sgt. Corey Hoy says they got a call from a woman who was positive she saw the animal at the dock. However, police responded within a couple of minutes and didn’t find any trace of it.
Hoy said it’s the first sighting in Nelson he’s aware of this spring. There were a number over the winter, however.
Police say if you come into contact with a cougar that doesn’t run away, stay calm, stand your ground and do not back down. Back away slowly if possible and when safe to do so. Pick up children, but don’t bend down, turn your back or run.
Raise your voice and speak firmly. Raise your arms to make yourself look larger, clap your hands, and throw something you might have in your hands. Do not bend down to pick up any items to throw. This action may trigger a pounce response in a cougar.
Cougar sightings can be reported to the RAPP line at 1-877-952-7277 or the Nelson Police Department at 250-354-3919.