‘Aggressive’ cougar kills pets at Fraser Valley campground

A Cultus Lake campground, in B.C.’s Fraser Valley, was cleared Friday after an “aggressive” cougar attacked campers’ pets, killing at least one.

In a statement to CityNews, the BC Conservation Officer Service (COS) says it received reports that a cougar had “killed pets and displayed stalking behaviour” at the Clear Creek campground area.

Working with BC Parks, the campground was temporarily closed and all campers were evacuated from the area as the teams worked to capture the cougar.

“Cougars that display aggressive behaviour towards people and pets are not candidates for relocation or rehabilitation,” the COS said.

The COS says its field officers are currently monitoring the situation, and will assess when it is safe enough to reopen the campground.

“Reservation holders have been notified with full refunds being provided. When the area has been re-opened, reservation holders will be notified, and online information updated,” the service said.

In a flyer posted to a public Facebook group, one dog was reportedly killed. The campground is now reminding folks of cougar safety.

“Do not leave children unattended. Keep children in the presence of adults at all times,” the flyer said. “Do not leave pets unattended, pets must be on-leash at all times.”

As of Saturday afternoon, the COS could not confirm how many pets were attacked.