Cougars, also known as mountain lions, were thought to be extinct in Indiana until recently when reports and sightings started being made. Cougars are considered to be a very rare sight in the state, but that could soon change depending on how conservation groups continue their efforts. The cougars were previously believed to spend most of their time in the western part of the country around mountain range habitats. But with a few confirmed reports, it appears that these cats are making their way further eastward, potentially establishing new habitats in Indiana.
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Are there Cougars in Indiana
Although it may come as a surprise to some, there actually are cougars living in Indiana. This relatively small population of cougars is evidence of a species reintroduction effort that began over two decades ago. The goal of the project was to help revive an animal that once roamed throughout the entire Midwest and its success has been impressive: not only have their numbers steadily increased but they’ve even expanded territory beyond those proposed by initial estimates.
Where to find Cougars in Indiana
Indiana is home to a thriving population of cougars, also known as mountain lions or panthers. These majestic creatures can often be spotted in wooded areas, especially in southwestern Indiana near the Ohio River. While sightings are very rare across the state, hiking trails such as Fairbanks Landing Wildlife Observation Trail and Knobstone Trail feature some of the best opportunities for glimpsing these elusive cats. Due to their size and camouflage colouring, they are not always easy to spot.
How many Cougars are in Indiana?
The number of cougars residing in Indiana is unknown, though evidence of their presence has been detected in recent years. Cougars were once native to the state but were extirpated by the early twentieth century. Now, sightings across Indiana suggest that these large cats are making a comeback. Although this species’ status is not officially recognized by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, researchers have noted an increasing number of calls from the public regarding possible cougar sightings in recent years.
Recent Cougars sightings in Indiana
While these powerful animals have not traditionally been found living within the borders of Indiana for many decades, recently an adult male was confirmed to have been seen in Clark County and evidence that indicated cougars have been in the area for at least two years. Wildlife experts theorize that young males may be dispersing from the Midwest’s existing breeding population, which could explain recent occurrences.
Reference:
https://www.in.gov/dnr/fish-and-wildlife/wildlife-resources/animals/mountain-lion/
https://wsbt.com/news/local/suspected-mountain-lion-spotted-in-northern-indiana
Rahul M Suresh
Visiting the Zoo can be an exciting and educational experience for all involved. As a guide, I have the privilege of helping students and visitors alike to appreciate these animals in their natural habitat as well as introducing them to the various aspects of zoo life. I provide detailed information about the individual animals and their habitats, giving visitors an opportunity to understand each one more fully and appreciate them in a more intimate way.
