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EDMONTON — St. Albert RCMP are warning residents to be on the lookout for a cougar after a possible sighting in the city’s northwest.

A resident called the RCMP at around 8:45 p.m. Monday to report the cougar sighting in a wooded trail near Bellerose High School on Giroux Road.

Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers have been called in to search for the animal.

While the cougar sighting hasn’t been confirmed by RCMP, officers are asking residents to bring their pets inside if possible. They also recommend walking children to and from school and bus stops, especially if their routes are near wooded areas.

St. Albert residents are also being asked to walk and run in groups for safety.

RCMP say cougars hunt any time, in any weather, but add they are most active at dawn and dusk.

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If you see a cougar you should not approach it. Officers say it’s important to stay calm, avoid rapid movement and do not run. Instead, slowly back away from the animal and try to make yourself as large as possible. They also suggest finding a stick or branch to wave around.

RCMP are asking residents to report any cougar sightings by calling 911.