Mountain Lion Sightings Reported in New Jersey Despite Said Extinction

Photo byZach KeyonUnsplash

PRINCETON, NJ - Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are considered extinct in New Jersey, with no confirmed breeding population in the state. Despite this, reports of sightings continue to surface, sparking interest and concern among residents.

According to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Eastern cougar, which once roamed New Jersey, was declared extinct by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2011, with the last confirmed sighting in the region dating back to the late 1800s.

However, sightings are still reported, often fueled by mistaken identity or the presence of other large cats, such as bobcats or escaped exotic pets.

Bobcats, which are native to New Jersey, can sometimes be misidentified as mountain lions due to their size and coloration, although they are significantly smaller and have distinct physical differences, such as shorter tails and ear tufts, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Some reported sightings are attributed to transient mountain lions from other regions, as these animals have large territories and can travel great distances, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Nonetheless, wildlife experts have not found conclusive evidence, such as tracks, scat, or confirmed photographs, to support the presence of a breeding population in New Jersey.

The ongoing reports highlight the importance of public education on wildlife identification and the natural history of the region’s fauna.

While the allure of mountain lions roaming New Jersey captivates the imagination, the scientific consensus remains that these big cats are no longer residents of the state.