Wolf spotted near downtown Victoria

Police say a wolf was spotted in the James Bay neighbourhood near downtown Victoria Saturday afternoon.

Officers patrolledarea parks andaskedpeople to keep their children and pets inside.

Police say an animal control officer saw the animal, and confirmed it is a wolf.

Video submitted to CHEK News in Victoria appears to show the animal trotting down a neighbourhood street.

Around 6:45 p.m. Victoria police said it hadreceived no new reports of sightings but asked anyone who sees the animal to call 911. It also advised pet owners to keep their animals inside overnight.

According to Parks B.C., it is best to stay as far away from wolves as possible.

Anyone who spots a wolf should begin scare tactics if it gets any closer than 100 m. This includes raising one's arms and waving them in the air, using noise makers and throwing sticks.

If a wolf displays aggressive behaviour, anyone nearby should back away slowly and not turn their back on the wolf.