Okanagan park reopens after cougar sighting

KELOWNA — Bertram Creek Regional Park has reopened and is safe for public use according to the Regional District of the Central Okanagan (RDCO).

READ MORE: People ignoring park closure after cougar spotting

“The 18-hectare park located along the south end of Lakeshore Road had been closed since Wednesday afternoon after reports of a cougar sighting near the beach playground area,” says Bruce Smith, Communications Officer for the RDCO. “Regional Parks Services staff and the BC Conservation Officer Service have not had any further sightings or come across any evidence the cougar is active in the park area.”

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Smith says the signs advising people of the recent cougar sighting will remain in place despite the reopening of the park. Smith adds anyone in the park should be aware of possible animal and wildlife encounters at any time.

“If you do see an animal in the park, leave it alone and give it plenty of space,” says Smith. “Under the Regional Parks Regulation Bylaw feeding or interfering with wildlife in a Regional Park could result in violation tickets being issued.”

Share this on X Click to share quote on X: "If you do see an animal in the park, leave it alone and give it plenty of space," says Smith. "Under the Regional Parks Regulation Bylaw feeding or interfering with wildlife in a Regional Park could result in violation tickets being issued."

Click here for more information on cougars from the B.C. Ministry of Environment ‘Safety Guide to Cougars’.