The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is confirming the presence of a cougar for the first time in Michigan's Lower Peninsula.
The cougar sighting took place in Bath Township in Clinton County.
A photograph of the cougar was taken by a resident on June 21. The DNR verified that it was in fact a cougar.
“Even with this verification, questions remain, especially regarding the origins of the animal,” said Kevin Swanson, DNR wildlife specialist and member of the agency’s Cougar Team. “There is no way for us to know if this animal is a dispersing transient from a western state, like cougars that have been genetically tested from the Upper Peninsula, or if this cat was released locally."
It is rare that you would encounter a cougar, but if you do there are things you should and should not do:
• Face the animal and do not act submissive. Stand tall, wave your arms and talk in a loud voice.
• Never run from a cougar or other large carnivore. If children are present, pick them up so they cannot run.
• Do not crouch and get on all fours.
• If attacked, fight back with whatever is available. DO NOT play dead.
• Report the encounter to local authorities and the DNR as soon as possible.
The DNR is asking anyone who spots a suspected cougar to report it at mi.gov/eyesinthefield
