The reward has been doubled in the case of a young cougar that was shot and not reported in Port Alberni.

The Fur-Bearers, a Canadian charity dedicated to protecting fur-bearing animals, first offered a $1,000 reward for information leading to the identification and conviction of whoever was responsible.

After community members stepped forward with support, including an anonymous donor, the reward has now increased to $2,000.

The group’s Executive Director, Lesley Fox, says the response from residents shows the community won’t tolerate such acts.

“Shooting and failing to report is unacceptable,” she said, urging anyone with information to contact authorities.

According to the BC Conservation Officer Service, the young cougar was discovered with a suspected gunshot wound early in October.

The incident hadn’t been reported, and officials say the animal was later killed by provincial officers on October 12.

The Fur-Bearers say the case may involve violations under the BC Wildlife Act.

While cougar hunting is legal in the province, it’s tightly regulated, requiring proper licensing, adherence to hunting seasons, and compliance with provincial rules.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Report All Poachers and Polluters (RAPP) line at 1-877-952-7277, or file a report online through the BC government’s website.