This bobcat was spotted dashing across a Vernon resident’s yard Thursday morning, April 16. (Penny Campbell photo)

This bobcat was spotted dashing across a Vernon resident’s yard Thursday morning, April 16. (Penny Campbell photo)

Bobcat spotted in North Okanagan yard

Conservation officer advises residents to keep garbage secure during springtime wildlife boom

  • Apr. 20, 2020 12:00 a.m.

With the arrival of spring, you can expect to see an increase in wildlife.

A resident in Vernon’s BX-Swan Lake area captured a photo of a wild cat sprinting across her lawn Thursday morning, April 16.

Vernon Conservation Officer Tanner Beck believes the animal to be a bobcat.

Beck said he hasn’t noticed any change in wildlife in the area due to fewer people out and about amid the coronavirus pandemic, but said this time of year is always a time for vigilance when it comes to garbage and recycling.

“The most important thing is that bears will be waking up and residents need to ensure there are no attractants on their property, especially insecure garbage,” said Beck.

“Keep garbage in a shed, garage or other secure structure. Do not leave it accessible outside.”

READ MORE: Impacted garbage service in B.C. prompts call for vigilance at start of bear season

READ MORE: ‘Can we hook him up?’ Turkey on the loose in Calgary wandering in search of mate


Brendan Shykora

Reporter, Vernon Morning Star

Email me at Brendan.Shykora@vernonmorningstar.com

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