Several bobcat sightings have been reported in Chestermere this year.
According to the city, bobcats are highly adaptable and may lose their fear of people when living in or near human development.
"It is extremely unlikely that a bobcat will attack a human. They are opportunistic hunters," wrote the city in a news release.
Chestermere also provided residents with tips to prevent bobcats from coming onto human property.
These tips include:
- Not feeding wildlife.
- Keeping garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids.
- Putting garbage and recycling out only on the morning of collection, not earlier.
- Not leaving pet food outdoors.
- Removing bird feeders and bird baths.
- Trimming trees, shrubs, and grass.
- Adding motion detector lighting to walkways and driveways.
Other tips include closing off spaces under desks and outbuildings and keeping outdoor animals in a secure enclosure.
"Be sure that the bobcat has not made a den for kittens somewhere on your property. Bobcat kittens are usually born April to June, and they stay with their mother for up to a year," wrote the city. "If there are no kittens, be sure the bobcat has an escape route – open gates on your property and do not block its exit."
If you are concerned for your safety due to a bobcat sighting, you can call Alberta Fish and Wildlife at 403-297-6423.