View Full Version : Big cat sighting in Maine
Mountain Lion sighting (http://www.bangornews.com/news/t/news.aspx?articleid=151739&zoneid=500) being investigated in central Maine, hair samples sent out for DNA analysis. This is the same area of another sighting last year.
Thanks for the update Woodsy. Was the cat stalking some pugs? ;)
Well Oakland isn't exactly remote so my guess is that there are plenty of Pugs, lil kitty cats and other domesticated critters readily available. I posted a link last year of a sighting in this area where a guy saw a big cat and young en together. Probably more people letting there hard to feed and handle pets loose.
Had a guy from NY in the crosshairs.
I read the hair went to U of Illinois. Any idea when results will be back? Won't that gob up the wind farm!
Any idea when results will be back?
Hard telling. If it were to come back positive ID mountain Lion, we probably wouldn't hear anything more about it. They wouldn't want to ALARM us would they? Hehe.
leeki pole
07-19-2007, 10:40
Had a guy from NY in the crosshairs.
I read the hair went to U of Illinois. Any idea when results will be back? Won't that gob up the wind farm!
Actually, to Southern Illinois University. They'll turn it around pretty quick, they have a big wildlife biology and veterinary program.
In case you didn't see this related link, here is the link with picture of cat (http://bangordailynews.com/news/t/news.aspx?articleid=151710&zoneid=500)(you decide) in the next town over from Oakland.
Don't forget to read the comments under article:eek:
Pedaling Fool
07-22-2007, 12:11
Anyone know when they expect the results of the hair/skin DNA test?
TJ aka Teej
07-22-2007, 15:24
In case you didn't see this related link, here is the link with picture of cat (http://bangordailynews.com/news/t/news.aspx?articleid=151710&zoneid=500)(you decide) in the next town over from Oakland.
That there is a catamount, sure as you're born.
TJ aka Teej
07-22-2007, 15:31
Anyone know when they expect the results of the hair/skin DNA test?
I'm told the actual lab work done for human DNA testing for genealogy takes about 45 minutes. The time it takes to get samples from the field into labs, and the priority given it once it's there, can however take freakin ferever.
My guess is that if we have Eastern Cougars, that are not all that different than Western Cougars, except they are perhaps more shy, and perhaps smaller. Similar to the way our Eastern Coyotes are more shy, though a bit larger than Western Coyotes, and smaller than Eastern Wolves. Similar to the way our Black Bears are more smaller and more shy than out west. Of course all these species are very adaptable and very mobile and very complex, so their range and behaviour are liable to change considerably over time.
SawnieRobertson
07-22-2007, 20:38
In case you didn't see this related link, here is the link with picture of cat (http://bangordailynews.com/news/t/news.aspx?articleid=151710&zoneid=500)(you decide) in the next town over from Oakland.
Don't forget to read the comments under article:eek:
That is a mountain lion.
Kinnickinic
SawnieRobertson
07-22-2007, 20:41
In case you didn't see this related link, here is the link with picture of cat (http://bangordailynews.com/news/t/news.aspx?articleid=151710&zoneid=500)(you decide) in the next town over from Oakland.
Don't forget to read the comments under article:eek:
Whoever would think that is a bobcat has never seen a bobcat.--Kinnickinic
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-22-2007, 20:50
That cat is twice the size of the biggest bobcat I've seen and, while the fuzziness makes this hard to judge, it's color / pattern appears wrong for a bobcat. I'm not sure what that cat is, but it certainly could be a lion. Looking forward to hearing the results of the DNA testing.
Does not look like a Bobcat OR Lynx to me either. See the muscles on those front legs...and that head...... I voted Mountain Lion in the poll like most other voters.
Not a lynx? Just googled this photo of Lynx that looked similar. Kind of sort of.
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-23-2007, 09:15
Could be a Canada Lynx: Pic1 (http://www.nwcircles.com/scuff/wp-content/uploads/2006/12/lynx-rufus2.jpg) & Pic2 (http://www.id.blm.gov/information/lynx/images/lynx.jpg). This animal's normal habitat is the northern Rocky Mountains. However, the tufts of fur on the face - quite visible in the photos in this post - seem to be absent in the photo of the creature in Maine.
SawnieRobertson
07-23-2007, 10:13
Could be a Canada Lynx: Pic1 (http://www.nwcircles.com/scuff/wp-content/uploads/2006/12/lynx-rufus2.jpg) & Pic2 (http://www.id.blm.gov/information/lynx/images/lynx.jpg). This animal's normal habitat is the northern Rocky Mountains. However, the tufts of fur on the face - quite visible in the photos in this post - seem to be absent in the photo of the creature in Maine.
You are right, Dino. The size of the head is more lynx-like though. Shall we begin the betting at $10.00?--Kinnickinic
Footslogger
07-23-2007, 10:16
You are right, Dino. The size of the head is more lynx-like though.
=====================================
Steroids might be involved ...
'Slogger
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-23-2007, 10:26
=====================================
Steroids might be involved ...Or it's a she-cat and she's waxed :D
Footslogger
07-23-2007, 10:30
Or it's a she-cat and she's waxed :D
=================================
That is SO uncivilzed ...
'Slogger
Mother's Finest
07-23-2007, 11:43
mountain-lynx
new hybrid
peace
mf
If DNA testing confirms that it's a lion, that doesn't answer the really important question, which is whether the cat was born in the wild. There have been many mountain lions found in the eastern U.S. in the last few decades but it is thought that all of these have been escapees from captivity or "pets" turned loose. Confirmation of a wild, breeding population of lions would be news. Confirmation that this animal is a mountain lion wouldn't have any particular biological significance IMHO.
SawnieRobertson
07-23-2007, 12:42
Or it could be a victim of fetal alcohol syndrome. Can hardly wait for those DNA results . . . tick, tick, tick.--Kinnickinic
warraghiyagey
07-23-2007, 14:01
Good for the big cats of the world. Be it Catamounts, Puma, Mountain Lion, Cougar, Panther, Jaguar - these terms have been intertwined referring to various mountain lions by locals for the last few hundred years. It's to bad society still sees wildlife as a threat and only supports there existence in a PC kind of way.
Whatever you call your local big cat, it's nice to know they are out there, it's even nicer to see them.:)
SawnieRobertson
07-23-2007, 14:26
Good for the big cats of the world. Be it Catamounts, Puma, Mountain Lion, Cougar, Panther, Jaguar - these terms have been intertwined referring to various mountain lions by locals for the last few hundred years. It's to bad society still sees wildlife as a threat and only supports there existence in a PC kind of way.
Whatever you call your local big cat, it's nice to know they are out there, it's even nicer to see them.:)
Try sharing the neighborhood with those sneaky, silent, strike-from-behind creatures. I do not feel "bad" for having no desire to know that they are out there. Believe me, they are a constant concern for those who trail run, hike alone, have small (defenseless) children, have children who like to run and play, have pets, or even have llamas or horses.--Kinnickinic
warraghiyagey
07-23-2007, 15:38
Try sharing the neighborhood with those sneaky, silent, strike-from-behind creatures. I do not feel "bad" for having no desire to know that they are out there. Believe me, they are a constant concern for those who trail run, hike alone, have small (defenseless) children, have children who like to run and play, have pets, or even have llamas or horses.--Kinnickinic
Yes, thanks I see your point. I forgot how the newspapers and TV news are filled with over-the-fold front page stories and leads on the nightly news of the epidemic of big cat attacks on the aforementioned defenseless (insert victim here).
Maybe we could get the Department of Homeland Security involved to get a handle on these terrorists in the wild. We certainly could do with a few less of God's creatures and a few species less would sure help keep our fenced in lawns that much safer.
Maybe we could finish eradicating a few other suspect species while we're at it, bears, moose (well they do charge people from time to time), poisonous snakes and spiders, all wild canines.
Actually now that I think about it, I'm too scared to go back to the woods and finish my thru-hike. I think I'll take a bow and arrows and shoot everything that moves.
Or maybe I can go to the inner city and get a gun to do the job. God knows it's safer to walk city streets than it is to hike in the Wild where mountain lions may roam.:eek:
By the way, most of the people I know fall into all the categories you listed under "constant concern," and I don't know any of them who feel the least bit that way toward these "attack-from-behind" creatures.
I think your sample size is a little suspect. Does it really extend past the person in the mirror?
Frolicking Dinosaurs
07-23-2007, 15:45
I would be concerned for my safety hiking in an area with mountain lions. I have a pronounced limp when tired and therefore look like injured prey.... I wouldn't take children into areas with mountain lions period. All the kids I take hiking are kids I love and want to keep around. They are small enough for a large cat to consider prey and have a tendency to run ahead, skip down the trail and go check out that rustling in the bushes. Granny Dino can't keep up with them.
taildragger
07-23-2007, 16:27
I've actaully had someone's "pet" mountain lion try to pounce me, and that still doesn't change my opinion of them. In an area where they are not over populated, the risk of attack is small. If they were cats here in the NE, then awesome, I'd love to see them back. In OK, I've been hunting the same deer with them for a while, never seen the cats, just tracks and kills, and quite frankly thats all I want to see. I have a much greater fear of the buffallo that are run on the ranch, they are far more likely to kill me than any cat. Wild dogs are also a much larger threat, same with hogs. So, if you exists with these animals, what difference will a few cats make.
Moon Monster
07-23-2007, 16:45
The size should be fairly easy to confirm if that's someone's back yard in the photo. Something or someone of known size can stand there and compare to the photo.
For background information, speculation, previous sightings, and news on Eastern Mountain Lions, read everything here: http://www.easterncougar.org
It's hard to tell from the picture how big it is. Also, if the fur is wet that might change its appearance a little, and the shade might be hiding the tufts and dark markings. Could be any of the three I would say.
that will turn out to be a "blinx", a bobcat/lynx hybrid. i will be more than happy to take anyones money that thinks differently.
that will turn out to be a "blinx", a bobcat/lynx hybrid. i will be more than happy to take anyones money that thinks differently.
I think we've already had this discussion (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?t=19448) here:)
pumatrack
07-24-2007, 12:05
I guess I 'd better throw my two cents in here...I didn't get the name pumatrack for nothing.. I'm an animal tracker. I 've tracked mountain lions, bears and several other species and am generally a mammal specialist. It's not the greatest picture and it's hard to establish size. The head shape, ears and musculature tell me it's a mountain lion. The fur looks alot more like bobcat. It's hard to tell the size from the surroundings though. After being chased once by a mountain lion that was at a distance, this resembles that cat more than a bobcat. I could tell you lots of bear stories as well and plan to when I thru-hike in March!
katagious
07-24-2007, 17:14
Cooncat! ;)
That looks like my lost kitty fluffy. I over-fed her as a kitten and she got a little over-weight. If you see her, feel free to pet her.
Seriously, I think it might be the dreaded hybrid Bob-gar. Part Puma, part Cougar, 100 percent murdering rapacious killer. Be afraid.
Part Puma, part Cougar, 100 percent murdering rapacious killer. Be afraid.
Naw, big cats like that favorite meal is fresh venison(Deer). We got herds of them running around. That cat in the picture looking into someones back yard was just sightseeing, getting to know its way around and marking its territory.
warraghiyagey
07-25-2007, 08:33
Naw, big cats like that favorite meal is fresh venison(Deer). We got herds of them running around. That cat in the picture looking into someones back yard was just sightseeing, getting to know its way around and marking its territory.
Thank you Woodsy for some common sense input on the big cats. From someone who actually walks in the woods as they do and sees them for what they are. They are beautiful and they belong as much as the rest of us here walking the earth - as we do. It's unfortunate that the predominant lore built around them is that of the rapacious killer and "attack from behind" creatures.
So much so that even here on the WB they've been villified so much that there have been senseless discusssions about their very existence. Maybe if folks would get away from the TV that shows the 'other' big gets stalking their prey, maybe they'd get a chance to actually see one or signs of one in the wild and realize they aren't terrorists in the wild, just one of the Great Spirit's creatures trying to get by. Tantalizingly awesome and beautiful as they do.:)
It's unfortunate that the predominant lore built around them is that of the rapacious killer and "attack from behind" creatures.
Good point and likely why our F&W officials who have hidden evidence of their existence here and in other eastern U.S. areas are reluctant to publicly admit that these cats are roaming around. Can you imagine the general publics reaction to such a disclosure, OMG, killer cats lurking in backyards, lol.
taildragger
07-25-2007, 10:48
It would be good to have some of them released here in upstate NY, give those city exiles an eye opener, and maybe lessen my chances of hitting a deer on my daily commute.
I really do hope that the cats make a comeback, I'd lack to see them back, much more so than other predators.
SawnieRobertson
07-25-2007, 13:54
Well, folks, "killer cats lurking in the back yard" is a reality to those who live in the West. In the 70s and 80s, they were accepted as secretive, shy mammals that helped keep the population of their preferred foods down. I well remember turning around on a hike up to Black Lake in Rocky through the snow and finding tracks right where I had been. I wasn't the least bit concerned even though I figured there was a cat watching my descent.
Since then, lots has happened. They have stopped being shy. If they are hungry, they are quite focused on getting relief from that feeling. If you want to try to co-exist with the equivalent in the food chain to a tiger or a polar bear, have at it. But be careful. They make no sound. Once they have got a bead on you, they are relentless.
Yes, they are beautiful creatures. So are tigers and polar bears. Wisdom tells me that I have to exchange my feelings of security if I move to India or the regions of the North Pole just as I would have to accept forsaking my down jacket if I moved back to The Magic Valley of South Texas, where 100 degree temperatures are more common than freezing temperatures.
Nope, I think mountain lions make bad neighbors. So do the deer.
Kinnickinic
Moon Monster
07-25-2007, 14:34
Good point and likely why our F&W officials who have hidden evidence of their existence here and in other eastern U.S. areas are reluctant to publicly admit that these cats are roaming around. Can you imagine the general publics reaction to such a disclosure, OMG, killer cats lurking in backyards, lol.
Not likely the number one reason officials deflect evidence. If lion were acknowledged, then new chunks of habitat would have to be set aside for their protection as the cats are legally endangered in the East. That would endanger development interests, which would be more politically potent than proposing a new pet predator to the public psyche.
Not likely the number one reason officials deflect evidence. If lion were acknowledged, then new chunks of habitat would have to be set aside for their protection as the cats are legally endangered in the East. That would endanger development interests, which would be more politically potent than proposing a new pet predator to the public psyche.
I have heard this argument also:)
As I said earlier, I doubt anymore will be heard about the DNA results.
taildragger
07-25-2007, 15:19
Well, folks, "killer cats lurking in the back yard" is a reality to those who live in the West. In the 70s and 80s, they were accepted as secretive, shy mammals that helped keep the population of their preferred foods down. I well remember turning around on a hike up to Black Lake in Rocky through the snow and finding tracks right where I had been. I wasn't the least bit concerned even though I figured there was a cat watching my descent.
Since then, lots has happened. They have stopped being shy. If they are hungry, they are quite focused on getting relief from that feeling. If you want to try to co-exist with the equivalent in the food chain to a tiger or a polar bear, have at it. But be careful. They make no sound. Once they have got a bead on you, they are relentless.
Yes, they are beautiful creatures. So are tigers and polar bears. Wisdom tells me that I have to exchange my feelings of security if I move to India or the regions of the North Pole just as I would have to accept forsaking my down jacket if I moved back to The Magic Valley of South Texas, where 100 degree temperatures are more common than freezing temperatures.
Nope, I think mountain lions make bad neighbors. So do the deer.
Kinnickinic
Sawnie, maybe its the fact that I am 6' tall and a predator myself, I've been hunted before, it feels strange. I do know that a mountain lion is the least of my fears in the woods, I am much more afraid of hogs (I know several people that have been charged by 300+ lbs boars) and ferral dogs. To a cat, I am a rather large peice of prey, why mess with me when a doe is an easier target. I have also lived with cats, they've never bothered me, I generally stay away from them, if I find their kill, I get the hell out of dodge
If you really want to make the cat less shy, open up a season on it, things that recognize humans as predators are less likely to stay around. Thats what actually amazes me about the deer population here, I don't register as a threat to them, in OK, if my car stops on the road and they are 400yds away, they will bolt for cover, or lay down.
But to think, killer cats in my backyard, hide everyone, thats a little over the edge. I'm far more worried about my neighbor getting loaded and running me over with a car, but we're not crying for prohibition again. I've been out hunting when someone was squatting who had been rumored to have killed a couple of people (a meth addict, and I didn't doubt the rumors about him), but that didn't make me think twice about deer hunting.
Maybe it's just my mentality, but predators never really bothered me, humans do bother me. Then again, I've been running around in areas where it was foolish to not carry a gun. Prioritize what should scare you the most, for some I guess the exotic idea of a killer cat is more appealing than the boys from Deliverance:eek:.
leeki pole
07-25-2007, 15:20
I have heard this argument also:)
As I said earlier, I doubt anymore will be heard about the DNA results.
I heard the "scream" walking the dogs yesterday early morning. We've got lots of deer on the back 40 and one of our cats mysteriously disappeared. Probably just a coincidence, but the tracks in the creek bottom are very suspicious. Much larger that a normal bobcat. You hear that "scream", it leaves little to the imagination. I spend a lot of time out there and it would not surprise me that the cats are around. BTW, I'm in Mississippi.:rolleyes:
Pennsylvania Rose
07-25-2007, 15:47
There have been several credible, but not official, sightings of "panthers" (that's what they call mountain lions in S. Appalachia) in the Smokies, especially around Cataloochee. Also, my husband's family, who lives way back in the hills of E. KY, just accept that they'll see one every few years. I've heard rangers at state parks dismiss the reports as locals with imagination, but I'll take the word of people from a long line of moonshiners, hunters, and general "backwoodsmen" over that of someone who is only repeating what they read in the official literature any day. And I'm a trained botanist/naturalist.
Thought this might be an informative read from the experts on the subject at hand. Reading this may dispel some myths, especially the SIDEBAR section.
And if you have seen a big cat there is an address to report it, if you so choose to.
http://www.fws.gov/news/NewsReleases/showNews.cfm?newsId=0A18734E-C6A7-8977-80E51EC6CB8FFC73
Here is an excerpt:
Agriculture, settlements and cities transformed the eastern forest. By 1846, naturalist John James Audubon wrote, "the animal, which has excited so much terror in the minds of the ignorant and timid, has been nearly exterminated in all our Atlantic states, and we do not recollect a single well authenticated instance where any hunter?s life fell sacrifice to a Cougar hunt."
warraghiyagey
07-26-2007, 00:44
Here is an excerpt:
Agriculture, settlements and cities transformed the eastern forest. By 1846, naturalist John James Audubon wrote, "the animal, which has excited so much terror in the minds of the ignorant and timid, has been nearly exterminated in all our Atlantic states, and we do not recollect a single well authenticated instance where any hunter?s life fell sacrifice to a Cougar hunt."
Woodsy, thank you, hopefully invoking the Audubon name is just shiny enough to mesmerise folks into seeing these words long enough for them to make at least the tiniest impact.
warraghiyagey
07-26-2007, 00:55
Well, folks, "killer cats lurking in the back yard" is a reality to those who live in the West . . . . . Once they have got a bead on you, they are relentless. . . Nope, I think mountain lions make bad neighbors. So do the deer.
Really, killer cats lurking in the west a reality. Wow, I had no idea. I guess I shoud read or watch the news more often. Oh, that's right, I do.
Sawnie you're spreading unjust fear. For what reason, so others can have it too?
Have you had one 'have a bead on you?' You type remarkably well for someone who has survived such a vicious attack.
You want a really good example of bad neighbors. Try settlers, or colonists or as some cultures have seen them terrorists.
Your disdain for the nature that God created is repugnant.
Woodsy, thank you, hopefully invoking the Audubon name is just shiny enough to mesmerise folks into seeing these words long enough for them to make at least the tiniest impact.
When I posted this excerpt, I thought you would appreciate it warraghiyagey, especially the part about the minds of the ignorant and timid.:D And yes, John Audubon IS a name to respect.
SawnieRobertson
07-26-2007, 11:59
Guys, Guys--I am bowing out now. Your superior wisdom and opinions along with that of Mr. Audubon of long ago crush my point, which is merely backed up with facts, names, and personal experience. The messages are (1) Woodsy, I hope you can get the report to us to satisfy our curiosity and (2) watch what you wish for, as things may get very messy in a few decades.--Kinnickinic
[quote=SawnieRobertson (1) Woodsy, I hope you can get the report to us to satisfy our curiosity and [/quote]
Me too!
Not to get too far off topic here but as you know we deal with rogue Black Bears in the East on occaision and In the upper Northeast people are often in conflict with Moose on the highways. Moose when in the 'RUT' are crazed and might charge if you get too close and stomp on you.
Many people have died in collisions with Moose in particular. Because of this should we exterminate the creatures in whose territory we the people have invaded?
Yes, we've created hunting lotteries to help lessen the Moose/car collisions and a Bear hunt in the fall to keep them in check.
If it were to happen that the Eastern Cougar started multiplying in the East then at some point a new lottery on them would be created to keep them in check as well.
Man has a way of keeping wild animals in check, it's called the rifle....so, not to worry too much. ;)
People kill alot more people than all the wild animals put together...do I hear a lottery on people?
warraghiyagey
07-26-2007, 15:00
Me too!
Not to get too far off topic here but as you know we deal with rogue Black Bears in the East on occaision and In the upper Northeast people are often in conflict with Moose on the highways. Moose when in the 'RUT' are crazed and might charge if you get too close and stomp on you.
Many people have died in collisions with Moose in particular. Because of this should we exterminate the creatures in whose territory we the people have invaded?
Yes, we've created hunting lotteries to help lessen the Moose/car collisions and a Bear hunt in the fall to keep them in check.
If it were to happen that the Eastern Cougar started multiplying in the East then at some point a new lottery on them would be created to keep them in check as well.
Man has a way of keeping wild animals in check, it's called the rifle....so, not to worry too much. ;)
People kill alot more people than all the wild animals put together...do I hear a lottery on people?
Amen. And thank you again Woodsy for appreciating nature in all it's forms.
Peace to all - and Sawnie, I do hope you can learn to appreciate all of God's creatures.:)
katagious
07-26-2007, 18:06
I still say it looks like a Maine Coon Cat! I remember the last time I saw one...I was sitting on the couch of a home of a friends...er..friend...and I heard this "THUMP THUMP THUMP" the floor kinda shook...our glasses sorta rattled...my eyes got a bit wider...when around the corner came the biggest cat I've ever seen in my life!
I would not curse..but in this case..I swear...it's weight (according to the owner) was approximately 60lbs!
By Gosh! I believe it!
:) ;)
There have been several credible, but not official, sightings of "panthers" (that's what they call mountain lions in S. Appalachia) in the Smokies, especially around Cataloochee. Also, my husband's family, who lives way back in the hills of E. KY, just accept that they'll see one every few years. I've heard rangers at state parks dismiss the reports as locals with imagination, but I'll take the word of people from a long line of moonshiners, hunters, and general "backwoodsmen" over that of someone who is only repeating what they read in the official literature any day. And I'm a trained botanist/naturalist.
My Father-in-law lives in Cullowhee N.C., do a bit of hiking every time I visit. This past April I came across cat tracks that were bigger than my fist,(I've got pretty good sized mitts) followed their straight line for a couple of hundred yards. Got back to the house all excited thinking I had some news for the folks and they were amused..."See tracks quite often" he tells me. I'm setting up a trail camera this fall and will be sure to post anything interesting.
warraghiyagey
07-27-2007, 00:21
I still say it looks like a Maine Coon Cat! I remember the last time I saw one...I was sitting on the couch of a home of a friends...er..friend...and I heard this "THUMP THUMP THUMP" the floor kinda shook...our glasses sorta rattled...my eyes got a bit wider...when around the corner came the biggest cat I've ever seen in my life!
I would not curse..but in this case..I swear...it's weight (according to the owner) was approximately 60lbs!
By Gosh! I believe it!
:) ;)
Maybe it's the elusive Tughill Catawampus from upstate NY that used to haunt many a teenage camping excursion in the woods, that is when the Happy Valley Hookman wasn't around.:)
In 2000 I saw a dead cougar on the side of I-95 just south of the North Carolina / virginia border. Right after you cross that big lake (southbound).
Read all about the results of hair samples tested here!:eek: (http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/4184200.html)
SawnieRobertson
08-16-2007, 12:33
Woodsy, it was good of you to send along the follow up. If it was in truth a mountain lion, there will be more encounters. That is, if it was a mountain lion that was bold enough to show up at a human's back yard, it has lost that much fear at least. Unless the man is given to hoaxes, I cannot imagine a fox looking like a mountain lion, especially not for 20 seconds. Thanks.
--Kinnickinic
Jim Adams
08-16-2007, 13:47
I attended a lecture on mountain lions in southern California at the Kick Off for the PCT. It was a long and very thorough lesson taught by a biologist that captures and tags mountain lions with radio collars. It was one of the most informative lectures that I've ever attended.Things that I learned:
1. there are far more collared mountain lions in southern California than people think. The researchers don't have an accurate number of a total collared and non-collared.
2. mountain lions do not like the taste of human flesh as food.
3. they are for the most part afraid of humans.
4. they usually will not bother hikers for several reasons among which are the last 2 above and also because we are too slow.
5. most attacks on humans are due to a hunting / playing reflex triggered by speed such as mountain bikers or runners. your normal house cat does the same with a ball of string.
6. they see far more humans than humans see them. people tend to suddenly find themselves close to mountain lions because as long as the cat thinks that it is not seen, it will not flee but stay hidden until the human threat passes.
I was very fortunate to see a lion on the PCT. I was walking on the trail with a lot of high rocks on my right and a drop to a creek on my left. I had not seen any tracks (hadn't been looking either ) and was just walking enjoying the morning. I don't know why but I decided to look up at the rocks and approximately 40'--50' ahead and 20' above me, I saw a lion laying sprawled out on a rock watching me. This cat was obviously able to see me coming at least for the past 1/2 mile and yet it wasn't in a stalking or hunting position. BUT, as soon as it knew that I had seen it, it was gone! Did it worry me? YOU BET! I walked backwards for the better part of the next mile but never saw it again and when questioning others as to tracks following me on the trail, no tracks were seen. It was a magnificent thing to see and relaxed my feelings quite a bit for the remainder of my hike.
All I can say is that the lecture that I had attended had been total fact with my sighting.
If the Eastern Mountain Lion is making a come back, I feel that it is a good thing, but after seeing one run up the A.T. ahead of me near Waynesboro, Va. in 1990, I think "if" can be eliminated from this topic.
geek
So much for getting "outfoxed". ;)
PS: My scat just came back from the lab. It tested positive for Ben & Jerry's. :sun
Pedaling Fool
08-16-2007, 14:02
I believe the ML is making a comeback in the Appalachians. However, I'm not sure I'd want to see this confirmed; it's probably best the general public does not know about their resurgence.
So much for getting "outfoxed". ;)
Are you suggestin' mebee that fox was "cat-holed?";) ;)
Are you suggestin' mebee that fox was "cat-holed?";) ;)
No, but I hear that the fox was all cattywumpus when they found him. ;)
This is starting to sound like the hiking humor forum:)
At least this cat was practicing LNT, well, almost, it missed a few hairs!
I'm sure this will be listed as a "confirmed sighting" by various eastern cougar web sites!
I attended a lecture on mountain lions in southern California at the Kick Off for the PCT. It was a long and very thorough lesson taught by a biologist that captures and tags mountain lions with radio collars. It was one of the most informative lectures that I've ever attended.Things that I learned:
1. there are far more collared mountain lions in southern California than people think. The researchers don't have an accurate number of a total collared and non-collared.
2. mountain lions do not like the taste of human flesh as food.
3. they are for the most part afraid of humans.
4. they usually will not bother hikers for several reasons among which are the last 2 above and also because we are too slow.
5. most attacks on humans are due to a hunting / playing reflex triggered by speed such as mountain bikers or runners. your normal house cat does the same with a ball of string.
6. they see far more humans than humans see them. people tend to suddenly find themselves close to mountain lions because as long as the cat thinks that it is not seen, it will not flee but stay hidden until the human threat passes.
I was very fortunate to see a lion on the PCT. I was walking on the trail with a lot of high rocks on my right and a drop to a creek on my left. I had not seen any tracks (hadn't been looking either ) and was just walking enjoying the morning. I don't know why but I decided to look up at the rocks and approximately 40'--50' ahead and 20' above me, I saw a lion laying sprawled out on a rock watching me. This cat was obviously able to see me coming at least for the past 1/2 mile and yet it wasn't in a stalking or hunting position. BUT, as soon as it knew that I had seen it, it was gone! Did it worry me? YOU BET! I walked backwards for the better part of the next mile but never saw it again and when questioning others as to tracks following me on the trail, no tracks were seen. It was a magnificent thing to see and relaxed my feelings quite a bit for the remainder of my hike.
All I can say is that the lecture that I had attended had been total fact with my sighting.
If the Eastern Mountain Lion is making a come back, I feel that it is a good thing, but after seeing one run up the A.T. ahead of me near Waynesboro, Va. in 1990, I think "if" can be eliminated from this topic.
geek
Thanks for sharing this information geek.
Comment #5 brings to mind this story (http://www.mssltd.com/nwtbiathlon/citizen.htm)which some of you may recall about a Olympic hopeful Biathlete killed by a Black Bear while training/running through the woods in Quebec.
Rick Hancock
08-21-2007, 14:42
During my 1980 thru-hike I saw a Mt. Lion in North Carolina 2 days appx 30 miles from Damascus. I was traveling up a fire road, stopped to adjust my pack, came around a bend in the road and there he was! Appx 30 yards away, twany coat with a lighter underbelly, long body, long tail, small head, stood about 20/24 inches tall at the shoulders. A lot of people told me I was crazy but the oldtimers who lived in the area never doubted me. Also a thru-hiking buddy who completed the AT over 16 years saw one with a cub in the 100 mile wilderness. Don't remember the year. I have seen plenty of tracks in the Saint Mary's Wilderness off the Blue Ridge Parkway in Va.Rick
mweinstone
08-21-2007, 14:47
if i may , id like to demonstrate the new and improved minnesota smith universal translater debunker,...if i may.we will now enter the sentence,BIG CAT SIGHTING IN MAINE"
result:
"ANIMALS KNOWN TO EXIST ON PLANET EARTH"
analysis: DUH
It might be just me, but the link given above does not have a photo, I am referring to the one that had the article to.
Kirby
It might be just me, but the link given above does not have a photo, I am referring to the one that had the article to.
Kirby
Photos at links like the one posted usually only stay up for a few weeks or less, then get removed.:(
High school students and Science teacher to investigate sightings:
http://bangornews.com/news/t/penquis.aspx?articleid=157838&zoneid=184
I volunteered as a hut caretaker along the AT in the GSM back in 1997 and even though the national park's official stance was the eastern mountain lion doesn't exist any more the rangers had photos of multiple cats in the park hanging on the wall.
It was almost the same story last summer in NH. I was at a ranger station in the White Mountains and someone came in telling about a cat sighting. The guy was told that there were no mountain loins in the Appalachians, but with a wink, told to call a phone number to report the sighting to someone within the forest service tracking sightings.
I'd love to see one!
In 97 I caught a glimps of one near the horse shoe curve in WV.It was after a ruffled grouse.
Also,in conn I seen two red wolf looking or coyote canines.I dont think they were coyotes because of their size,but they were red and maybe ate well.
Also,in conn I seen two red wolf looking or coyote canines.I dont think they were coyotes because of their size,but they were red and maybe ate well.
We have quite a few coyotes or coydogs in CT. I hear them howling regularly at night in the forest behind my house.
Another sighting in Central Maine captures the interest of state experts.:eek:
http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/6512426.html
warraghiyagey
06-24-2009, 08:32
:sun:sun:sun:sun
warraghiyagey
06-24-2009, 08:40
http://www.qnet.com/~saddleup/mtlion.jpg
skinewmexico
06-24-2009, 12:13
Nature has a pretty perfect system. Predator populations will increase to control the skyrocketing deer population. Just a little bit of a time lag. After the excess deer are gone, then it will get interesting, while it takes a little time for the predators to starve/die off.
Anyone have a good link for who to report a sighting to?
A place that would not bury it, due to the reams of paperwork it would create?
Just in case.
vamelungeon
06-24-2009, 14:06
Most of the game departments east of the Mississippi are going to tell you that cougars are extinct east of the Miss. except for Florida, even if you show them pictures or other evidence. They don't want to deal with it.
(Voice of experience)
Ashepabst
06-24-2009, 17:35
yeah, but this one had a "cat-like face" ...it's gotta be a cougar.
TJ aka Teej
06-24-2009, 18:59
Another sighting in Central Maine captures the interest of state experts.:eek:
http://morningsentinel.mainetoday.com/news/local/6512426.html
I've seen three or four, all in Gray, not far from an albino porcupine.
I've seen three or four, all in Gray, not far from an albino porcupine.
Several are seen regularly in Tilden Township, not far from the AT.
Wise Old Owl
06-24-2009, 21:31
Most of the game departments east of the Mississippi are going to tell you that cougars are extinct east of the Miss. except for Florida, even if you show them pictures or other evidence. They don't want to deal with it.
(Voice of experience)
Yea, that is very close to the truth! best outcome is signs at the beginning of a trail head.