Durham Cops Issue Mountain Lion Warning After Sightings In Pickering
Posted November 2, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Most everybody loves a cute pet, but there were reports of a much bigger cat on the prowl in Pickering Sunday and local residents most certainly did not want to feed this one.
Durham Police issued the warning concerning a mountain lion after two reports of sightings during recent weeks.
“The first incident involved an adult on Oct. 16 and the second was on Oct. 29 a 12-year-old boy reported that he had seen a mountain lion,” confirmed Sgt. Jim Griepsma.
The mere possibility of the large and potentially dangerous animal approaching schools or private homes prompted letters home for students in the area, leaving parents like Steve McCafferty understandably on edge.
“If it was to come across any of the kids or even myself, it could potentially have killed us,” he lamented.
“It is a large animal, I’m pretty sure it could do some serious damage.”
Mountain lion attacks are considered fairly rare in Canada, though they can certainly be fatal when they do occur.
The police warning is especially pertinent for dog owners, since the large cats are often drawn to the furry pets.
And in the rare and unfortunate event that you encounter the wild animal, you’re advised to make yourself as large as possible and rather than running, back away slowly, calling 911 at your nearest opportunity.
