Hiking trail closed near Nanaimo, B.C., due to 'aggressive' cougar

The Regional District of Nanaimo in British Columbia says it's temporarily closing a hiking trail due to the presence of an "aggressive" cougar.

It cites public safety in a notice posted Monday, saying Ammonite Falls Regional Trail is closed until further notice between the Creekside trailhead and the falls viewpoint in Benson Creek Falls Regional Park.

The district on Vancouver Island says the aggressive behaviour by the cougar was first spotted near the trail on New Year's Day.

It says there have since been additional reports of the cougar "guarding its kill in the area."

It says cougars are part of the environment in B.C., and is advising precautions that include leashing pets, travelling in groups and carrying bear spray.

The district says the B.C. Conservation Officer Service has been notified, and closure signs were erected in the area on Monday. 

The Conservation Officer Service told CBC News in an email that it has not had any "direct reports" or "negative interactions with a cougar."

It said it will continue to monitor the cougar's activity and respond as necessary, and that any aggressive behaviour can be reported to its hotline.

According to WildSafe B.C., cougar attacks are rare, and many reported sightings turn out to be other animals.

The group says anyone who encounters a cougar is advised to "keep calm" and "never run." Instead, it says you should "make yourself look as large as possible and back away slowly, keeping the cougar in view and allowing a clear exit" for the animal.

"If attacked, always fight back," it advises.