WATCH: Bobcat and bear spotted in Cochrane neighbourhood less than 24 hours apart

It's been a quiet summer for wildlife in Cochrane but residents have reported two sightings in one neighbourhood, in just one day.  

A bobcat was seen wandering through Riverview on Monday. 

Dee Michelle shared the photo of the big cat to local social media groups. 

The bobcat was spotted in Cochrane's Riverview neighbourhood on Sept. 18/23 (Photo credit Dee Michelle Facebook)

Fish and Wildlife officials offer tips on how to prevent bobcats from coming onto your property: 

• Keep trees, shrubs, and even grass trimmed so there is no shelter for bobcats to hide in.
• Close off any potential shelter, such as the spaces under decks, patios, and outbuildings.
• Remove the food, shelter, or water that may attract them to your property. Do not feed them.
• Keep your garbage in containers with tight-fitting lids.
• Put your garbage and recycling out only on the morning of collection, not earlier.
• Avoid opening screen doors and windows where bobcats could sneak into your home.
• Do not leave pet food outdoors.
• Remove bird feeders and bird baths so bobcats are not drawn into your yard to prey on the birds.
• Add motion detector lighting to walkways and driveways.
• Keep dogs, rabbits, chickens, or other animals that live outdoors in a secure enclosure with a strong roof.

A few hours later, a bear was caught on camera in the same small community. 

Norma Lynn was able to capture security footage of the bear on her driveway. 

Fish and Wildlife officials have recommended ways to discourage bears from visiting your property: 

• Keep your garbage and recyclable bottles and cans in bear-resistant, airtight containers.
• Keep your compost indoors. Outdoor compost attracts bears. Look into using an indoor composter.
• Remove bird feeders from your yard in the months when bears are active – usually from the beginning of April until the end of November. Be sure to clean up any spilled birdseed from the ground.
• Clean your barbecues. Scrub your barbecue clean after each use and store it in a bear-resistant building, such as the garage or shed.
• Never leave food out for wildlife.
• Talk to your neighbours. Let your neighbours know if you've seen a bear in the community.

If you encounter bobcats or other wildlife that may be a public safety concern, please call the Report a Poacher line at 1-800-642-3800.

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