If you should come across a cougar, the best way to repel it is to make yourself look as big as possible by waving your arms. If possible, grab a nearby stick and wave it too. Slowly back away. Fur color varies from black to brown to cinnamon or blond. There is often a white patch at the throat.
Claws are short and well-adapted for climbing.
Black bears eat berries, grass, roots, fish, carrion, and whatever mammals they can catch. In the forest, they like open spaces where berries can be found and many forms of succulent plants such as clover and grasses. They love salmon, and during spawning season will congregate near fish-bearing waterways. Since grizzly bears do not inhabit Vancouver Island, you need not worry about confrontations with them. The long tail is a prominent feature.