Following cougar sightings in the area, the Town of Diamond Valley is asking residents to travel in groups, keep pets on a leash and make noise when outdoors.
The Town posted a Wildlife Warning on social media on Jan. 2, after a cougar was spotted at multiple locations throughout the town, including in the river valley, the Town said.
The cougar has sparked interest on social media and appears to have been in the area for several days.
According to posts on Facebook, sightings also occurred near the Friendship Trail.
If encountering a cougar, the Town advises backing away slowly and maintaining eye contact with the animal while waving your arms to appear larger.
To minimize the chances of attracting wildlife, residents can ensure that trash bins are securely closed and that pet food isn’t left outside.
The Western Wheel reached out to the Town and to Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Services for more information but has not yet heard back.