Mountain Lion Sightings Reported in Wisconsin Despite Said Extinction

Photo byAndy HolmesonUnsplash

WAUSAU, WI - Mountain lions, also known as cougars, once roamed widely across Wisconsin, playing a crucial role in the state's ecosystem as apex predators.

Historically, these large cats were found throughout much of North America, including Wisconsin, where they primarily preyed on deer and other large animals.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, however, as European settlers expanded into the region during the 19th century, mountain lions faced severe threats from hunting, habitat destruction, and the depletion of their prey.

These factors led to their rapid decline, and by the early 20th century, mountain lions were considered extinct in Wisconsin.

Despite their official extinction, reports of mountain lion sightings in Wisconsin persist to this day. Most of these sightings are attributed to misidentifications, as other animals such as bobcats, large dogs, or even house cats are often mistaken for cougars, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

However, there have been occasional confirmed sightings in recent years, likely involving transient individuals from western populations that are expanding their range eastward.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) takes these reports seriously and investigates credible evidence, such as tracks or trail camera footage, to determine the presence of mountain lions in the state.

While there is no established breeding population in Wisconsin, the occasional presence of these elusive predators serves as a reminder of their historical significance and the possibility of their return to the region in the future.