Cougar spotted in Port Coquitlam, city warns

A file photo of a cougar. (Pexels)

The City of Port Coquitlam is warning residents about a cougar sighting in the area.

In a social media post Monday afternoon, the city said it received a report of a mountain lion in Blakeburn Lagoons Park.

“If you see a mountain lion: Stop, stay calm, do not turn your back and do not run. Maintain eye contact, look big and be assertive. Back away slowly,” the city wrote.

Port Coquitlam asked residents to report any cougar sightings to the BC Conservation Officer Service at 1-877-952-7277.

According to BCCOS data, officers received 236 calls about cougar sightings in August, ultimately attending 22 and destroying three animals.