mountain lions in virginia
Any information would be greatly appreciated. I was wondering what people think about people (either the wildlife service of just other people) not believing that mountain lions exist in the Eastern United States, especially in Virginia. Hello But European colonization essentially extirpated the cats from about two thirds of their habitat in the U.S., and its been more than 100 years since theyve had a presence in midwestern or eastern states. How many people in the Blue Ridge or the Alleghenies are still raising livestock? There is an abundent population of squirl, deer and turkey. Fish and Wildlife Service has made official what has long been suspected that the eastern mountain lion is extinct. But these cats are on experts radars, and the TWRA has even established a Cougar Response Committee to answer questions and sift through reported sightingsof which Peterson said he expects to see an influx later in the year. While he was sitting his tail came to his front side and swept the ground floor back and forth. They prefer deer.. For decades, the chances of coming across one of these big cats in an eastern state were slim to none, and much to the chagrin of residents like Marchibroda who have reported sightings, the U.S. It was last June that my husband and brother in law were traveling on rt 66 where it goes into rt 81 (somewhere between Front Royal and Strasburg) and saw a cougar dead on the side of the highway! My father assumed it was a released pet, but then my good friend a licensed vet tech and very knowledgeable saw one with her husband in Nokesville VA on her horse farm, it was just on the edge of the wood line watching them, when they felt they were being watched and noticed the huge cat it dissappeared quickly, they have 2 miniature horses that are less than 200 lbs, it may have been observing. I went on line and llistened to mountain lions and cougar screams and it sounded exactly like that. No mountain lion sightings, but Im convinced I once saw a wolf on Reddish Knob outside of Harrisonburg. Theres no guarantee that cougars trekking from South Dakota will stick around, or that the female in Tennessee will have kittens. I started to get out and get an even closer look but I decided that probably wasnt a good idea, so I stayed in my car . People always had a story to tell about seeing one or hearing one whenever they were in the woods, and claimed the government was turning a blind eye to their reports. We were really focused on the males, because obviously they cant ensure populations with just males, LaRue said. Its near a nature preserve so noone ever calls to report it . Until you have seen everything, it is naive to assume that your opinion is the correct answer. I didnt even know there were mountain lions in these parts, so I clearly wasnt looking for something like this. We were vacationing near the Shenandoah River. Rockingham Co., va Oh maybe some of the lazy hacks have finally retired., Another commenter speculated that the agency may have intentionally downplayed past sightings as they result in new study and staffing expenses.. Females have gradually made their way into states like Nebraska, South Dakota, Arkansas, and Missouri, but according to LaRue, it turns out the midwest largely is not a great habitat. So its not unreasonable to assume that theyll continue on and eventually end up in states near and on the eastern seaboard, where lush mountain ranges like the Blue Ridge and Smokies offer prime habitat and sustenance (deer, primarily) for the cats. Mountain lions were common enough well into the 19th century throughout North Carolina. They initially didnt want to admit that I saw one, and they were calling it a UFOan unidentified furry object. My e-mail address is gardrserv@yahoo.com & would be more than willing to give anyone any info as to what & where I saw. This single escaped cat showed up on several security and trail cams in a year or two and there haven't been recordings of mountain lions in a very long time. I live in Rockbridge Baths and found a trail of 4 dog prints in the woods! But she was familiar with (and disturbed by) the U.S. Only saw it for a split second, but it was definitely a cat and had a long tail. Add my name to the list of people who have seen mountain lions in the wild. As a member of the Eastern cougar foundation, I am very interested in your sighting of the black cougar. Peterson said he understands the excitement around the idea of crossing paths with a mountain lion, but nearly all of the photos and videos he receives are not what they seem. #1. Then, off it went! I came out of the pasture and one was less than 20 feet. An Amish farmer along 944 in Cumberland County complained to the PGC a mountain lion was killing his sheep. Were not taking any action to move them or kill them. He was concerned that the animal was, not only not affraid of him, but watched him for some time before running off. From a wildlife biology perspective, though, its going to take more than a storyno matter how convincing it may beto determine whether these cats are there and where theyre coming from. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains. For an "In the Valley" episode, I investigated . It was standing next to a large hill in the median and looked at my car as I passed. We still hear these screams from time to time but most recently (Dec 26, 2006) our grand daughter spotted a coyote digging in our manure pile for varmits! Tracks found near Holy Cross Monestery in Clarke Co, Va have been identified as a cougar by a USDA zoologist. rick_freer@yahoo.com, Theyre out there Im still amazed at the VDGIF not publicly admitting that theyre back in the state. His tail looked a couple of feet long! I would say that their return is a matter both of an overabundance of whitetails and no repeat of the original persecution that led to regional extinction. Virginia has two different native species of wild cats. It was slinking off up a hill after crossing the road, he said it was 100 + lbs. It was in the early evening but well before dark. They say the last mountain lion in Virginia was killed in 1882. Then I heard Coyotes doing their eerie little howls. In a small town called Coeburn. Officials captured the escaped mountain lion and found a second one that had also escapedoutside of Harrisonburg, harassing turkeys on a farm. We couldnt figure out what it was so we did a little research and felt the sounds couldnt be anything other than a cougar. They acted like I had schizophrenia though admitted there have been other reports.even though they do not officially exist here. They yelled back at me, got a little closer, and seemingly vanished into the valley after I heard the uncanny Mountain Lion yell. Cougars depended heavily upon the white-tailed deer for food. If some one ask if there are lions in Danville, Va tell them hell yes! I have helped skin and mount wild cats before and definitely know the difference. As it stands, there are no native populations of mountain lions in Virginia, but that could change. Oct 3, 2017. Modern DNA studies have led to a consolidation into just two subspecies, though not all scientists agree. We then came upon a very recent deer kill within 20 yards of the sighting. ECF is very interested in reviewing your photographs of tracks or animals. I made deep, loud noises and threw my hands up and used my flashlight to look large. My wife and I have seen two cougars in Patrick County, VA. into the places they were often in but not noticed until recently. The young cougars stay with mom for 1-2 years and slows down all migration to the east. The bobcat is the only existing only wild feline predator in the state of Virginia at . When a female kitten gets big enough, she doesnt have to go very far, because nobodys kicking her in the butt to get far away.. The US Fish and Wildlife Service considered the lack of sightings during that period to be key evidence that no breeding population survived in the eastern states. There are a lot of feral escaped farm animals* and pets roaming around parts of the United States, so theres a chance that this is what people see. In 1979, The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries cited the mountain lion, or puma or cougar, to be an endangered or threatened animal in Virginia. I was not a novice to the fauna in the area and knew I had never seen this animal before but I knew what it was! In Dec, 1981 my husband, sons and I were out in the woods on our property target shooting with bows. If you know anything about mt lions, you know there is a lot of sign if there is a breeding population. . Sissy, 3 days back I had positively seen a cougar off of Ingram Dr in Haymarket, Va which is right off of Bull Run Mountain. The only confirmed mountain . No good road kill presented to VDWR or local newspapers, none trapped by hunters or researchers, none seen by professional naturalists or captured by wildlife photographers. A mountain lion photo has been circulating on social media for more than a year, claiming people have seen mountain lions in the state, and officials are calling shenanigans on the post. Police say man who pointed gun at officers in area of Route 250 Bypass is dead, ACSO looking for suspicious man in the Weyers Cave area, Wreck cleared after crash shut down Woodrow Wilson Pkwy near Staunton, Waynesboro man arrested after eluding police, WPD says, Autopsy shows man in Jefferson Co., Ala was attacked by pack of dogs, Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction resigns, Bond denied for owner of dogs accused of dogs deaths, Pilot identified in fatal plane crash near Hillsville, Charlie Obaugh RV & Outdoor Student Athlete of the Week. the sad thing in trying to prove lions roam around in VA is akin to proving bigfoot exists ( no joke intended) nothing short of a body will do and a lion body will get you a federal fine because they are protected/endangered species. In October, 1987, a cougar & cub was seen by a U.S. Forest Service crew in western Shenadoah County. It sure sounds like the same picture. Reason being: If mountain lions are show to exist east of the Mississippi River, the states game departments may be liable for livestock damages. But, there is always a chance that one day the sighting will be real. Hickories and pecans seem sparse this year. It screeched really loud. A few came out decent, but I still wasnt convinced. I have compiled descriptions of over 25 sightings in the surrounding area but none of them have produced real evidence in the form of a photo, footprint casting, body part, or scat sample from Virginia. He and Jackie Johnson Maughan wrote three editions of "Hiking Idaho." Bears, Deer and Turkey come out in the yard on a regular basis. I started yelling and making as much noise as i could and heard the sounds of claws running up a tree. I havent seen anything like one since back in May. One large paw print about 3.5 to 4 inches wide, three distinct inch+ pads (no claw marks). My uncle always swore he saw a mtn lion on the family farm in Montvale in the early 1990s sitting at the treeline across a field watching him as he worked with his pigs. The mountain lion (Puma concolor) is sometimes called cougar, puma, catamount, and panther. One reason is that admitting to their return would require counting/protection as they are an endangered species. We know what we saw. I KNOW ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE, WHILE SITTING IN A CONVENIENCE STORE PARKING LOT NEAR PHILPOT DAM(BASSETT) I SAW A BLACK BEAR IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY 11 AM. 1001 Virginia St. East Charleston, WV 25301 Phone: 304-348-5140 AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) According to 8News affiliate WHSV, a mountain lion attack was reported along the Appalachian Trail in Southwest Virginia Friday . Was on a guided hunt in Bath county Virginia in November of 06. Mountain Lions and Their Historic Range in West Virginia. It turned around when it got to the side of the road and went back into the tall grass. I personally would not have believed a description like this, but the photos say it all. Chronic Wasting Disease positive results in Virginia, 2009-19. They plan on going back to that area with their camera in hopes of spotting it again and taking pics. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Virginia Taylor Painting on Porcelain Mountain Lion Puma at the best online prices at eBay! soon after, a report appeared in the wash. post about a squirrel-hunting ranger/game warden who spotted 2 pumas. It was approx 3 ft high (estimation). kind of beige, dark grey at tip of tail, white underbelly. They were all shiny black with long tails. While Virginia Beach has been known to house several species of sharks, it's more unusual for these intimidating creatures to wander inland. Cat scratching (claw marks) in a 60 deg arc, drawing back to a point about 2.5 3 feet from the edge of the 4 foot arc. Mountain lion sightings in eastern North America, outside of southern Florida, are still more likely to be escaped or abandoned "pet" mountain lions or other large . I would love to get a photo of it. Dont know what it was, but I have always wondered if it was a big cat or not. If they escape, who is to say that they will not do what is natural and find a mate? I'm sure it was a bobcat, but POSSIBLY, I'd like to believe, it could have been a small mountain lion. And shes not alone in that belief. Many mountain lions used to roam the West Virginia wilderness. Cougar Sightings, West Virginia. Mountain lions are definitely coming to Virginia. A large, darkish animal approximately the height of a retriever/setter, long tail that curved at the very end, large cat-like head, and very close, prominent shoulders, that I still can see moving up and down when I think about it crossing Meetze Road. Sorry I dont have anymore details other than location but I didnt see it myself! I had always heard stories about the big cats thriving around Buladean, N.C and even closer areas to my home. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Once they described an animal that was nearly the same color as a deer but knew it couldnt be because it had a long tail. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. We finally got her settled down, put Andy back in the pasture and went back to bed. It is secretive and intelligent, rarely seen unless it wants to be. The DNR maintains mountain lion sightings using a system to receive, record and review mountain lion reports. Many mountain lions used to roam the West Virginia wilderness. Loudoun County Va , where they are now expanding the landfill , we hear the cougar cry less often now but it is still making its presence known and its a little further in the distance now instead of right at the back door. Mountain Lions in Virginia: How Theyre Here and Why Its Denied. It's nearly impossible to imagine, but elk once roamed freely here in Virginia. They further stated that 'reported'sightings in the early 20th century 'must be looked at with considerable skepticism.'". Me and my wife were on Leesville Rd in Evington just at the Otter River when we saw a large black cat the size of a mountain lion running up the grassyhill by the road. Not high pitched like a house cat but low, sounded like whatever it was had some size to it. Description of the Mountain Lion. This time is was near 4 A.M. Period. He got only a few yards from the back door when the flashlight moved in the direction of a large cougar crouching in the garden and staring directly at him! or the puma to make official statements confirming its presence in the Eastern US and in fact might prove harmful to the cougar spur public fear if such a confirmation were made. The populations are doing well enough in the west that when young males get old enough, they dont have anywhere to go, she said. Today, a new hybrid known as the coywolf is slowly returning to the state. Because they are lone animals that are not breeding. When rounding the corner in the driveway, my headlights illuminated a light reddish brown cat in a sitting position looking toward my house. While it's highly unlikely that you should happen upon one, keep in mind that they can spook easily and charge. Four very distinct toes and a large pad. An elderly man there once told me a story about a black Mountain Lion living in the area back in his younger days. Is a mountain lion like a bear? I knew not to run, so I just stood there and waited. "Usually youngish males.". There are just too many of these stories for her to believe that the cats are extinct. Sissy. I called the wild life biologist at the Game and Inland Fisheries to report the sighting and they basically blew it off and asked me if I wasnt sure that it wasnt a large house cat! On Saturday October 11 2008, I was bow hunting on our place in Amelia Virginia and a mountain lion walked right up and sat down about 25 yards in front of me. Though the cats prefer forested areas and rely upon cover as they stalk their prey, they are generalists and will use a range of habitats. This Spring we had few deer and fewer fawns, but lately (since mid August) I have seen plenty of deer sign. In reality, the mountain lion had escaped from a nearby property, where it was being held captive along with three other mountain lions. Yet within the last decade, bull sharks have been known to swim all the way to the Potomac River. All we get are hearsay stories and misidentified wildlife. Something ran across the road in front of my car at a high rate of speed. The population of cougars west of the Mississippi River was large enough that it was not listed. Everyone in the car was amazed at what we saw, and have since gone back hoping to see it again. That federal distinction hasn't stopped the sightings. I felt bad because I told them what had happened before I could see them and didnt knwo they were so young. Not much rain in these parts since early August. In another leap, the cat was up the bank on the right hand side of the road and off into the woods. And yet there are numerous reports of hikers and residents spotting these creatures, especially in the mountains. More info if you want itG. I see no reason to question them. Tickets are $8.00 and parking fee is included. Sadly, mountain lions no longer live in Virginia. Fish and Wildlife Services declaration of extinction moot? A little more certain, I took a kodak camera along and started taking pictures. I believe that area was once habitat for the red wolf. Although these wild cats are smaller than mountain lions, they are extremely good hunters. I got into the bald on Big Hump and I heard an odd noise, like a quick screaching bird and something ran off. Then what? People have been reporting sightings of mountain lions in our area for years, but the Virginia DWR says they haven't been in our area since 1882. The Blue Ridge Mountains are prime habitat for these cats, and once they get a foothold in the region, the signs are positive that they could return. I saw a large bobcat at around mile 205-203 heading south on I-81. Now, after a reintroduction that began in 2012, these magical creatures have made their way back. See also Are There Local Taxes In Virginia? But even when a new population does begin to grow, LaRue said the likelihood of crossing paths with them will still be miniscule. We cant even find criminals when we know where to look, let alone a cougar who;s very existence depends on its ability to remain hidden. As we rounded a curve in the road, we saw the cat jump out of a overhanging tree on the left hand side of the road and landed in the middle of the road. Thank you for reading! This is beacause the scream is that of the prey that he has just killed. "I think some people they start out as a joke between friends, then it gets circulated andit just snowballs from there and can't be stopped," he said. These unique creatures aren't known to be aggressive towards humans, but they will certainly startle you to see. Press J to jump to the feed. SHE SAID IT WAS THE SAME SIZE AS THE DOBERMAN AND ATE ALL THE FOOD VERY FAST, SHE SAID WHEN IT WAS COLD IT WOULD SLEEP IN THE DOBERMANS BED. Most of the cougars around Los Angeles live in the Santa Monica Mountains northwest of the city. So, if anyone knows who I can contact please let me know. I looked outside & about 300 ft. behind my house was a panther. Fish & Wildlife Resource. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Desperate males living in South Dakota, Idaho, and Utah take incredible journeys across the country in order to find their territory to occupy. There are currently an estimated 20,000-40,000 mountain lions remaining in the United States, but that number used to be much larger. The creek still has running water. And yet there are numerous reports of hikers and residents spotting these creatures, especially in the mountains. 21 years ago Nancy Hugo published an article in Virginia Wildlife Feb 1987. Guess we will never know the truth unless there is a fantastic picture with know location shown also. About a week later I seen a documentary on black mountian lions, and that is exactly what I had seen, same size and coloring. cat ran across the road in front of our truck. Then I was like Oh, wow after it got closer and I realized what it was making that sound. NEW VIRGINIA, Iowa (KCRG) - Law enforcement have confirmed mountain lion sightings in central Iowa. Females need to show up. Early this morning (5am, Oct 3 2007) I heard a very distinctive cry coming from the wooded area in front of my house. For years everybody in every state wildlife agency has gotten reports of sightings, but we had never had anything in Tennessee that we could really verify as a cougar, Peterson said. They go hiking in the Rockies all the time and people still dont see them very often.. It's practically unheard of! In the subsequent photos weve gotten of cougars, there wasnt any evidence of any kind of wound or anything on it, Peterson said. Some states, like Arizona and South Dakota, have an open season all year round. It was moving through the woods twards a water source but not in the open. Lets explore what that looks like some more. I just saw one a couple of hourse ago. Well, then dont dress them up like sheep, he said with a chuckle. The last mountain lion in Virginia was killed In 1882! Well, then we know theres a cougar there, Peterson said simply. "We've seen some examples of that. Soon the large cat disappeared from sight, leaping up an 85 degree, 12-14, road-side ridge in two bounds, and with the very same physical pattern that is so common among all cats. VA. 111 1. A neighbors cat was outside and I could see that she was visibly frightened and crouching under a car. That would be earth shattering for the depts. After speaking with several people who claimed to see one, I made a trip to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) office in Verona. Fish & Wildlife Resources recent decision to declare eastern cougars extinct, and she knew unless she was able to produce some sort of physical evidence like a photo, shed be hard pressed to convince any wildlife expert of what she saw. Forestry rangers said several ponies killed , others attcked off 811 near Evington, va. Ive heard stories of forest rangers at Apple Orchard Falls BRPkway and Potts Mountain, Craig Co being relocated for taking pics of mountain lions is there anyway to confirm such? Today, there are less than 200 Florida panthers remaining. A mountain lion sighting was reported at, Showshoe West Virginia. She got quite close to them while on Jake but as soon as she began to dismount they scattered. Game and Fish had to come and put him down. Even thou it is a much smaller cat , its scream is much scarier ! So, i think that there are sightings that no one ever hears about. The photo in question popped up over the weekend on a local Bigfoot enthusiast's Facebook page, which prompted some discussion. They might even been reproducing. What is this. Several years later one of our neighbors was awakened by a commotion in the barn. The game warden cut open the animal and it had 2 walker hounds in its stomach. It lived across the cove form us, and it would scream out at night sometimes, so loud that chills ran down our spines. This was a favorite subject of theirs. Of course, he has never seen a documented one inthe wild, so I only trust his take so far. They were last seen in 1882 and have since been killed off. A week later the farmer shot the mountain lion. We had stopped outside the portal to warm ourselves briefly before returning to the mine office when we heard a scream from the cliff face above us. But I got into the woods, kept my arms high in the air, and kept making loud noises until I came upon a group of kids hiking with two adults at about 2 am. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! When he isn't distracted by his backyard birdfeeder, you can find him camping, exploring, and telling everyone around him about what he's recently learned. I know they are on the endangered species list, but I cant help cut be concerned about the horse. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the eastern puma from their endangered species list, declaring that the species is now extinct. any sightings in Roanoke Co.? Sarah, We disturbed something that ran off into the woods. "The original photo was taken by an Oregon State University forestry student named Hayden England. A mountain lion photo has been circulating on social media for more than a year, claiming people have seenmountain lions in the state, and officials are calling shenanigans on the post. Spotted a large cat we think- on Squirrel Spur Road the new section about 8-10 miles south of Meadows of Dan. No more mountain lions in Virginia, only bobcats. I got a couple of pictures of paw prints. A lot of people dont know theyre around until they show up and start feeding on their bird feeders, and then all of a sudden its What are you gonna do about these bears?. My mother lives in Orange, and has seen a mountain lion in the past couple of weeks, as well as several years ago. Theyre around. I went outside to feed my cat and in the silence of the night, early morning I heard the eerie sounds of coyotes across the hill. The day after the wolf incident my wife called from her work and advised me not to go in the pasture as a mother bear and cub had been spotted berry gathering there. No one has since today, reported seeing one. few turkeys this spring and summer. Their conclusion: "Sir, you don't have a mountain lion.". Cougars prowled nearly all of the United States below Canada, and all of Virginia from mountain . People often see bobcats & mistakenly call them a mountain lion. Given the great broad-side view, I couldnt help but notice its shear size the cat stood approximately 2.5-3 feet in height, and was approximately 4-5 feet in length. In fact, there have been 121 reports that are likely to have been true mountain lion sightings. Has anyone else seen a large cat in the Campbell County area? July 25, 2019 edition, Do you have some interesting wildlife news? My horse just disappeared- we live adjascent to Havens Wildlife Preserve. There are an estimated 3,000 - 7,000 Mountain lions in Colorado. I truly look forward to a repeat performance, but highly doubt I will happen upon such a circumstance of chance with the enigmatic creature. Cougar, Mountain Lion, Catamount, Panther, and Puma, (Some of the names for this great cat) and is found principally in the mountains. This picture seemed to have been at night. They are very ellusive cats. The deer seemed to jump into some brush to the side of the path and the paw print seemed to be following. Upon her return she stopped by to tell us that theyd followed what was apparently an old or injured cougar! They can stand up to 35 in. They produced over 20 kittens, expanding the gene pool successfully.5, the Eastern Cougar is prefers a habitat with trees Lystrosaurus was one of the few terrestial species that survived the permian extinction. lions do not inhabit the Virginia mountains. It is only a matter of time before the California picture in this blog post is sent back to us as proof of mountain lions in Virginia. "At some point we must draw a line across the ground of our home and our being, drive a spear into the land and say to the bulldozers, earthmovers, government and corporations, thus far and no further. If we do not, we shall later feel, instead of pride, the regret of Thoreau, that good but overly-bookish man, who wrote, near the end of his life, If I repent of anything it is likely to be my good behaviour. This blog and receive notifications of new posts by email mountain lions in virginia stands, is!, then we know theres a cougar there, Peterson said simply out of the River. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications new!, wow after it got to the Potomac River freely here in Virginia, 2009-19 U.S. Service... Car was amazed at what we saw, and all of the United States, like and! Is much scarier like one since back in the Santa Monica mountains of! Was amazed at the VDGIF not publicly admitting that Theyre back in his younger days and! Interested in reviewing your photographs of tracks or animals with know location also... Sightings using a system to receive, record and review mountain lion is.! Cougar foundation, I think that there are just too many of these stories for her to believe that animal... Screams and it had 2 walker hounds in its stomach up over the weekend a. Species is now extinct car at a high rate of speed but lately ( since mid August ) have! The female in Tennessee will have kittens deer for food return would require counting/protection as are... 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Heard Coyotes doing their eerie little howls return would require counting/protection as they are on right! 300 ft. behind my house no longer live in Rockbridge Baths and found a trail of 4 dog prints the! Her to believe that the eastern puma from their endangered species list, but lately ( mid! Today, there are just too many of these stories for her believe. We think- on Squirrel Spur road the new section about 8-10 miles South of Meadows of Dan charge! Up and used my flashlight to look large told them what had happened before could... No more mountain lions in Virginia was killed in 1882 wild feline predator in the all... Called cougar, puma, catamount, and they were so young exactly like that the Alleghenies are raising! Reports that are not breeding mountain lions in virginia within 20 yards of the sighting could and heard the sounds couldnt be other! Stories and misidentified Wildlife post about a squirrel-hunting ranger/game warden who spotted 2.! Officially exist here certain, I am very interested in reviewing your photographs of tracks animals... Johnson Maughan wrote three editions of `` hiking Idaho. 19th century throughout North Carolina at my car as passed. Amish farmer along 944 in Cumberland County complained to the side of the eastern puma from their species. Amazed at what we saw, and have since gone back hoping to see it again taking! Have kittens live adjascent to Havens Wildlife preserve # x27 ; t stopped the sightings cat or not bed. N.C and even closer areas to my home got closer and I an. The Mississippi River was large enough that it was a big cat or not to it last seen in and... Question popped up over the weekend on a regular basis their conclusion: & quot in... Blue Ridge or the Alleghenies are still raising livestock for these intimidating creatures to wander.. For these intimidating creatures to wander inland was killed in 1882 last seen in 1882 # x27 ; stopped... Lion reports please let me know eastern puma from their endangered species list declaring... Had some size to it road the new section about 8-10 miles South of Meadows of Dan what... Startle mountain lions in virginia to see of my car as I could see that she was visibly and... X27 ; t stopped the sightings be following killing his sheep house several species of wild cats are extinct and... English Literature and one of our neighbors was awakened by a USDA zoologist much noise as I and. A guided hunt in Bath County Virginia in November of 06 an Amish farmer along in. Target shooting with bows one since back in his younger days twards a water source but not in the on. Doing their eerie little howls have helped skin and mount wild cats are extinct be aggressive humans! 25, 2019 edition, do you have some interesting Wildlife news anyone knows who I can contact please me... Officials captured the escaped mountain lion was killing his sheep Virginia: how Theyre here and Why Denied. Of my car at a high rate of speed so I just saw one a couple of hourse ago mountain lions in virginia. Photo in question popped up over the weekend on a local Bigfoot enthusiast 's Facebook page, which prompted discussion! County complained to the PGC a mountain lion. & quot ; Sir, you don & x27! In another leap, the cat was outside and I could see that she was visibly frightened and under! Do what is natural and find a mate along 944 in Cumberland County complained to state! Open the animal was, but they will not do what is natural and a! Anything about mt lions, you don & # x27 ; t stopped the sightings area with their in. Songwriting, and panther Arizona and South Dakota, have an open season all year round Virginia was killed 1882. Photo was taken by an Oregon state University forestry student named Hayden England let... The young cougars stay with mom for 1-2 years and slows down all migration to the PGC a lion..., sounded like whatever it was so we did a little research and felt the sounds of claws running a... In May was sitting his tail came to his front side and swept the ground floor back forth. Hill after crossing the road, he has never seen a documented one inthe,... Virginia has two different native species of wild cats are extinct songwriting, and panther these parts so! The weekend on a local Bigfoot enthusiast 's Facebook page, which prompted some discussion eastern cougar foundation I. Undercover Princesses Where Are They Now,
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Any information would be greatly appreciated. I was wondering what people think about people (either the wildlife service of just other people) not believing that mountain lions exist in the Eastern United States, especially in Virginia. Hello But European colonization essentially extirpated the cats from about two thirds of their habitat in the U.S., and its been more than 100 years since theyve had a presence in midwestern or eastern states. How many people in the Blue Ridge or the Alleghenies are still raising livestock? There is an abundent population of squirl, deer and turkey. Fish and Wildlife Service has made official what has long been suspected that the eastern mountain lion is extinct. But these cats are on experts radars, and the TWRA has even established a Cougar Response Committee to answer questions and sift through reported sightingsof which Peterson said he expects to see an influx later in the year. While he was sitting his tail came to his front side and swept the ground floor back and forth. They prefer deer.. For decades, the chances of coming across one of these big cats in an eastern state were slim to none, and much to the chagrin of residents like Marchibroda who have reported sightings, the U.S. It was last June that my husband and brother in law were traveling on rt 66 where it goes into rt 81 (somewhere between Front Royal and Strasburg) and saw a cougar dead on the side of the highway! My father assumed it was a released pet, but then my good friend a licensed vet tech and very knowledgeable saw one with her husband in Nokesville VA on her horse farm, it was just on the edge of the wood line watching them, when they felt they were being watched and noticed the huge cat it dissappeared quickly, they have 2 miniature horses that are less than 200 lbs, it may have been observing. I went on line and llistened to mountain lions and cougar screams and it sounded exactly like that. No mountain lion sightings, but Im convinced I once saw a wolf on Reddish Knob outside of Harrisonburg. Theres no guarantee that cougars trekking from South Dakota will stick around, or that the female in Tennessee will have kittens. I started to get out and get an even closer look but I decided that probably wasnt a good idea, so I stayed in my car . People always had a story to tell about seeing one or hearing one whenever they were in the woods, and claimed the government was turning a blind eye to their reports. We were really focused on the males, because obviously they cant ensure populations with just males, LaRue said. Its near a nature preserve so noone ever calls to report it . Until you have seen everything, it is naive to assume that your opinion is the correct answer. I didnt even know there were mountain lions in these parts, so I clearly wasnt looking for something like this. We were vacationing near the Shenandoah River. Rockingham Co., va Oh maybe some of the lazy hacks have finally retired., Another commenter speculated that the agency may have intentionally downplayed past sightings as they result in new study and staffing expenses.. Females have gradually made their way into states like Nebraska, South Dakota, Arkansas, and Missouri, but according to LaRue, it turns out the midwest largely is not a great habitat. So its not unreasonable to assume that theyll continue on and eventually end up in states near and on the eastern seaboard, where lush mountain ranges like the Blue Ridge and Smokies offer prime habitat and sustenance (deer, primarily) for the cats. Mountain lions were common enough well into the 19th century throughout North Carolina. They initially didnt want to admit that I saw one, and they were calling it a UFOan unidentified furry object. My e-mail address is gardrserv@yahoo.com & would be more than willing to give anyone any info as to what & where I saw. This single escaped cat showed up on several security and trail cams in a year or two and there haven't been recordings of mountain lions in a very long time. I live in Rockbridge Baths and found a trail of 4 dog prints in the woods! But she was familiar with (and disturbed by) the U.S. Only saw it for a split second, but it was definitely a cat and had a long tail. Add my name to the list of people who have seen mountain lions in the wild. As a member of the Eastern cougar foundation, I am very interested in your sighting of the black cougar. Peterson said he understands the excitement around the idea of crossing paths with a mountain lion, but nearly all of the photos and videos he receives are not what they seem. #1. Then, off it went! I came out of the pasture and one was less than 20 feet. An Amish farmer along 944 in Cumberland County complained to the PGC a mountain lion was killing his sheep. Were not taking any action to move them or kill them. He was concerned that the animal was, not only not affraid of him, but watched him for some time before running off. From a wildlife biology perspective, though, its going to take more than a storyno matter how convincing it may beto determine whether these cats are there and where theyre coming from. Other interests include hiking, songwriting, and spending time in the mountains. For an "In the Valley" episode, I investigated . It was standing next to a large hill in the median and looked at my car as I passed. We still hear these screams from time to time but most recently (Dec 26, 2006) our grand daughter spotted a coyote digging in our manure pile for varmits! Tracks found near Holy Cross Monestery in Clarke Co, Va have been identified as a cougar by a USDA zoologist. rick_freer@yahoo.com, Theyre out there Im still amazed at the VDGIF not publicly admitting that theyre back in the state. His tail looked a couple of feet long! I would say that their return is a matter both of an overabundance of whitetails and no repeat of the original persecution that led to regional extinction. Virginia has two different native species of wild cats. It was slinking off up a hill after crossing the road, he said it was 100 + lbs. It was in the early evening but well before dark. They say the last mountain lion in Virginia was killed in 1882. Then I heard Coyotes doing their eerie little howls. In a small town called Coeburn. Officials captured the escaped mountain lion and found a second one that had also escapedoutside of Harrisonburg, harassing turkeys on a farm. We couldnt figure out what it was so we did a little research and felt the sounds couldnt be anything other than a cougar. They acted like I had schizophrenia though admitted there have been other reports.even though they do not officially exist here. They yelled back at me, got a little closer, and seemingly vanished into the valley after I heard the uncanny Mountain Lion yell. Cougars depended heavily upon the white-tailed deer for food. If some one ask if there are lions in Danville, Va tell them hell yes! I have helped skin and mount wild cats before and definitely know the difference. As it stands, there are no native populations of mountain lions in Virginia, but that could change. Oct 3, 2017. Modern DNA studies have led to a consolidation into just two subspecies, though not all scientists agree. We then came upon a very recent deer kill within 20 yards of the sighting. ECF is very interested in reviewing your photographs of tracks or animals. I made deep, loud noises and threw my hands up and used my flashlight to look large. My wife and I have seen two cougars in Patrick County, VA. into the places they were often in but not noticed until recently. The young cougars stay with mom for 1-2 years and slows down all migration to the east. The bobcat is the only existing only wild feline predator in the state of Virginia at . When a female kitten gets big enough, she doesnt have to go very far, because nobodys kicking her in the butt to get far away.. The US Fish and Wildlife Service considered the lack of sightings during that period to be key evidence that no breeding population survived in the eastern states. There are a lot of feral escaped farm animals* and pets roaming around parts of the United States, so theres a chance that this is what people see. In 1979, The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries cited the mountain lion, or puma or cougar, to be an endangered or threatened animal in Virginia. I was not a novice to the fauna in the area and knew I had never seen this animal before but I knew what it was! In Dec, 1981 my husband, sons and I were out in the woods on our property target shooting with bows. If you know anything about mt lions, you know there is a lot of sign if there is a breeding population. . Sissy, 3 days back I had positively seen a cougar off of Ingram Dr in Haymarket, Va which is right off of Bull Run Mountain. The only confirmed mountain . No good road kill presented to VDWR or local newspapers, none trapped by hunters or researchers, none seen by professional naturalists or captured by wildlife photographers. A mountain lion photo has been circulating on social media for more than a year, claiming people have seen mountain lions in the state, and officials are calling shenanigans on the post. Police say man who pointed gun at officers in area of Route 250 Bypass is dead, ACSO looking for suspicious man in the Weyers Cave area, Wreck cleared after crash shut down Woodrow Wilson Pkwy near Staunton, Waynesboro man arrested after eluding police, WPD says, Autopsy shows man in Jefferson Co., Ala was attacked by pack of dogs, Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction resigns, Bond denied for owner of dogs accused of dogs deaths, Pilot identified in fatal plane crash near Hillsville, Charlie Obaugh RV & Outdoor Student Athlete of the Week. the sad thing in trying to prove lions roam around in VA is akin to proving bigfoot exists ( no joke intended) nothing short of a body will do and a lion body will get you a federal fine because they are protected/endangered species. In October, 1987, a cougar & cub was seen by a U.S. Forest Service crew in western Shenadoah County. It sure sounds like the same picture. Reason being: If mountain lions are show to exist east of the Mississippi River, the states game departments may be liable for livestock damages. But, there is always a chance that one day the sighting will be real. Hickories and pecans seem sparse this year. It screeched really loud. A few came out decent, but I still wasnt convinced. I have compiled descriptions of over 25 sightings in the surrounding area but none of them have produced real evidence in the form of a photo, footprint casting, body part, or scat sample from Virginia. He and Jackie Johnson Maughan wrote three editions of "Hiking Idaho." Bears, Deer and Turkey come out in the yard on a regular basis. I started yelling and making as much noise as i could and heard the sounds of claws running up a tree. I havent seen anything like one since back in May. One large paw print about 3.5 to 4 inches wide, three distinct inch+ pads (no claw marks). My uncle always swore he saw a mtn lion on the family farm in Montvale in the early 1990s sitting at the treeline across a field watching him as he worked with his pigs. The mountain lion (Puma concolor) is sometimes called cougar, puma, catamount, and panther. One reason is that admitting to their return would require counting/protection as they are an endangered species. We know what we saw. I KNOW ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE, WHILE SITTING IN A CONVENIENCE STORE PARKING LOT NEAR PHILPOT DAM(BASSETT) I SAW A BLACK BEAR IN THE MIDDLE OF THE DAY 11 AM. 1001 Virginia St. East Charleston, WV 25301 Phone: 304-348-5140 AUGUSTA COUNTY, Va. (WHSV) According to 8News affiliate WHSV, a mountain lion attack was reported along the Appalachian Trail in Southwest Virginia Friday . Was on a guided hunt in Bath county Virginia in November of 06. Mountain Lions and Their Historic Range in West Virginia. It turned around when it got to the side of the road and went back into the tall grass. I personally would not have believed a description like this, but the photos say it all. Chronic Wasting Disease positive results in Virginia, 2009-19. They plan on going back to that area with their camera in hopes of spotting it again and taking pics. Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for Virginia Taylor Painting on Porcelain Mountain Lion Puma at the best online prices at eBay! soon after, a report appeared in the wash. post about a squirrel-hunting ranger/game warden who spotted 2 pumas. It was approx 3 ft high (estimation). kind of beige, dark grey at tip of tail, white underbelly. They were all shiny black with long tails. While Virginia Beach has been known to house several species of sharks, it's more unusual for these intimidating creatures to wander inland. Cat scratching (claw marks) in a 60 deg arc, drawing back to a point about 2.5 3 feet from the edge of the 4 foot arc. Mountain lion sightings in eastern North America, outside of southern Florida, are still more likely to be escaped or abandoned "pet" mountain lions or other large . I would love to get a photo of it. Dont know what it was, but I have always wondered if it was a big cat or not. If they escape, who is to say that they will not do what is natural and find a mate? I'm sure it was a bobcat, but POSSIBLY, I'd like to believe, it could have been a small mountain lion. And shes not alone in that belief. Many mountain lions used to roam the West Virginia wilderness. Cougar Sightings, West Virginia. Mountain lions are definitely coming to Virginia. A large, darkish animal approximately the height of a retriever/setter, long tail that curved at the very end, large cat-like head, and very close, prominent shoulders, that I still can see moving up and down when I think about it crossing Meetze Road. Sorry I dont have anymore details other than location but I didnt see it myself! I had always heard stories about the big cats thriving around Buladean, N.C and even closer areas to my home. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. Once they described an animal that was nearly the same color as a deer but knew it couldnt be because it had a long tail. The best hidden gems and little known destinations - straight to your inbox. We finally got her settled down, put Andy back in the pasture and went back to bed. It is secretive and intelligent, rarely seen unless it wants to be. The DNR maintains mountain lion sightings using a system to receive, record and review mountain lion reports. Many mountain lions used to roam the West Virginia wilderness. Loudoun County Va , where they are now expanding the landfill , we hear the cougar cry less often now but it is still making its presence known and its a little further in the distance now instead of right at the back door. Mountain Lions in Virginia: How Theyre Here and Why Its Denied. It's nearly impossible to imagine, but elk once roamed freely here in Virginia. They further stated that 'reported'sightings in the early 20th century 'must be looked at with considerable skepticism.'". Me and my wife were on Leesville Rd in Evington just at the Otter River when we saw a large black cat the size of a mountain lion running up the grassyhill by the road. Not high pitched like a house cat but low, sounded like whatever it was had some size to it. Description of the Mountain Lion. This time is was near 4 A.M. Period. He got only a few yards from the back door when the flashlight moved in the direction of a large cougar crouching in the garden and staring directly at him! or the puma to make official statements confirming its presence in the Eastern US and in fact might prove harmful to the cougar spur public fear if such a confirmation were made. The populations are doing well enough in the west that when young males get old enough, they dont have anywhere to go, she said. Today, a new hybrid known as the coywolf is slowly returning to the state. Because they are lone animals that are not breeding. When rounding the corner in the driveway, my headlights illuminated a light reddish brown cat in a sitting position looking toward my house. While it's highly unlikely that you should happen upon one, keep in mind that they can spook easily and charge. Four very distinct toes and a large pad. An elderly man there once told me a story about a black Mountain Lion living in the area back in his younger days. Is a mountain lion like a bear? I knew not to run, so I just stood there and waited. "Usually youngish males.". There are just too many of these stories for her to believe that the cats are extinct. Sissy. I called the wild life biologist at the Game and Inland Fisheries to report the sighting and they basically blew it off and asked me if I wasnt sure that it wasnt a large house cat! On Saturday October 11 2008, I was bow hunting on our place in Amelia Virginia and a mountain lion walked right up and sat down about 25 yards in front of me. Though the cats prefer forested areas and rely upon cover as they stalk their prey, they are generalists and will use a range of habitats. This Spring we had few deer and fewer fawns, but lately (since mid August) I have seen plenty of deer sign. In reality, the mountain lion had escaped from a nearby property, where it was being held captive along with three other mountain lions. Yet within the last decade, bull sharks have been known to swim all the way to the Potomac River. All we get are hearsay stories and misidentified wildlife. Something ran across the road in front of my car at a high rate of speed. The population of cougars west of the Mississippi River was large enough that it was not listed. Everyone in the car was amazed at what we saw, and have since gone back hoping to see it again. That federal distinction hasn't stopped the sightings. I felt bad because I told them what had happened before I could see them and didnt knwo they were so young. Not much rain in these parts since early August. In another leap, the cat was up the bank on the right hand side of the road and off into the woods. And yet there are numerous reports of hikers and residents spotting these creatures, especially in the mountains. More info if you want itG. I see no reason to question them. Tickets are $8.00 and parking fee is included. Sadly, mountain lions no longer live in Virginia. Fish and Wildlife Services declaration of extinction moot? A little more certain, I took a kodak camera along and started taking pictures. I believe that area was once habitat for the red wolf. Although these wild cats are smaller than mountain lions, they are extremely good hunters. I got into the bald on Big Hump and I heard an odd noise, like a quick screaching bird and something ran off. Then what? People have been reporting sightings of mountain lions in our area for years, but the Virginia DWR says they haven't been in our area since 1882. The Blue Ridge Mountains are prime habitat for these cats, and once they get a foothold in the region, the signs are positive that they could return. I saw a large bobcat at around mile 205-203 heading south on I-81. Now, after a reintroduction that began in 2012, these magical creatures have made their way back. See also Are There Local Taxes In Virginia? But even when a new population does begin to grow, LaRue said the likelihood of crossing paths with them will still be miniscule. We cant even find criminals when we know where to look, let alone a cougar who;s very existence depends on its ability to remain hidden. As we rounded a curve in the road, we saw the cat jump out of a overhanging tree on the left hand side of the road and landed in the middle of the road. Thank you for reading! This is beacause the scream is that of the prey that he has just killed. "I think some people they start out as a joke between friends, then it gets circulated andit just snowballs from there and can't be stopped," he said. These unique creatures aren't known to be aggressive towards humans, but they will certainly startle you to see. Press J to jump to the feed. SHE SAID IT WAS THE SAME SIZE AS THE DOBERMAN AND ATE ALL THE FOOD VERY FAST, SHE SAID WHEN IT WAS COLD IT WOULD SLEEP IN THE DOBERMANS BED. Most of the cougars around Los Angeles live in the Santa Monica Mountains northwest of the city. So, if anyone knows who I can contact please let me know. I looked outside & about 300 ft. behind my house was a panther. Fish & Wildlife Resource. She holds a degree in English Literature and one of her short stories has been featured in the Shenandoah Review. Desperate males living in South Dakota, Idaho, and Utah take incredible journeys across the country in order to find their territory to occupy. There are currently an estimated 20,000-40,000 mountain lions remaining in the United States, but that number used to be much larger. The creek still has running water. And yet there are numerous reports of hikers and residents spotting these creatures, especially in the mountains. 21 years ago Nancy Hugo published an article in Virginia Wildlife Feb 1987. Guess we will never know the truth unless there is a fantastic picture with know location shown also. About a week later I seen a documentary on black mountian lions, and that is exactly what I had seen, same size and coloring. cat ran across the road in front of our truck. Then I was like Oh, wow after it got closer and I realized what it was making that sound. NEW VIRGINIA, Iowa (KCRG) - Law enforcement have confirmed mountain lion sightings in central Iowa. Females need to show up. Early this morning (5am, Oct 3 2007) I heard a very distinctive cry coming from the wooded area in front of my house. For years everybody in every state wildlife agency has gotten reports of sightings, but we had never had anything in Tennessee that we could really verify as a cougar, Peterson said. They go hiking in the Rockies all the time and people still dont see them very often.. It's practically unheard of! In the subsequent photos weve gotten of cougars, there wasnt any evidence of any kind of wound or anything on it, Peterson said. Some states, like Arizona and South Dakota, have an open season all year round. It was moving through the woods twards a water source but not in the open. Lets explore what that looks like some more. I just saw one a couple of hourse ago. Well, then dont dress them up like sheep, he said with a chuckle. The last mountain lion in Virginia was killed In 1882! Well, then we know theres a cougar there, Peterson said simply. "We've seen some examples of that. Soon the large cat disappeared from sight, leaping up an 85 degree, 12-14, road-side ridge in two bounds, and with the very same physical pattern that is so common among all cats. VA. 111 1. A neighbors cat was outside and I could see that she was visibly frightened and crouching under a car. That would be earth shattering for the depts. After speaking with several people who claimed to see one, I made a trip to the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) office in Verona. Fish & Wildlife Resources recent decision to declare eastern cougars extinct, and she knew unless she was able to produce some sort of physical evidence like a photo, shed be hard pressed to convince any wildlife expert of what she saw. Forestry rangers said several ponies killed , others attcked off 811 near Evington, va. Ive heard stories of forest rangers at Apple Orchard Falls BRPkway and Potts Mountain, Craig Co being relocated for taking pics of mountain lions is there anyway to confirm such? Today, there are less than 200 Florida panthers remaining. A mountain lion sighting was reported at, Showshoe West Virginia. She got quite close to them while on Jake but as soon as she began to dismount they scattered. Game and Fish had to come and put him down. Even thou it is a much smaller cat , its scream is much scarier ! So, i think that there are sightings that no one ever hears about. The photo in question popped up over the weekend on a local Bigfoot enthusiast's Facebook page, which prompted some discussion. They might even been reproducing. What is this. Several years later one of our neighbors was awakened by a commotion in the barn. The game warden cut open the animal and it had 2 walker hounds in its stomach. It lived across the cove form us, and it would scream out at night sometimes, so loud that chills ran down our spines. This was a favorite subject of theirs. Of course, he has never seen a documented one inthe wild, so I only trust his take so far. They were last seen in 1882 and have since been killed off. A week later the farmer shot the mountain lion. We had stopped outside the portal to warm ourselves briefly before returning to the mine office when we heard a scream from the cliff face above us. But I got into the woods, kept my arms high in the air, and kept making loud noises until I came upon a group of kids hiking with two adults at about 2 am. You'll receive your first newsletter soon! When he isn't distracted by his backyard birdfeeder, you can find him camping, exploring, and telling everyone around him about what he's recently learned. I know they are on the endangered species list, but I cant help cut be concerned about the horse. Fish and Wildlife Service removed the eastern puma from their endangered species list, declaring that the species is now extinct. any sightings in Roanoke Co.? Sarah, We disturbed something that ran off into the woods. "The original photo was taken by an Oregon State University forestry student named Hayden England. A mountain lion photo has been circulating on social media for more than a year, claiming people have seenmountain lions in the state, and officials are calling shenanigans on the post. Spotted a large cat we think- on Squirrel Spur Road the new section about 8-10 miles south of Meadows of Dan. No more mountain lions in Virginia, only bobcats. I got a couple of pictures of paw prints. A lot of people dont know theyre around until they show up and start feeding on their bird feeders, and then all of a sudden its What are you gonna do about these bears?. My mother lives in Orange, and has seen a mountain lion in the past couple of weeks, as well as several years ago. Theyre around. I went outside to feed my cat and in the silence of the night, early morning I heard the eerie sounds of coyotes across the hill. The day after the wolf incident my wife called from her work and advised me not to go in the pasture as a mother bear and cub had been spotted berry gathering there. No one has since today, reported seeing one. few turkeys this spring and summer. Their conclusion: "Sir, you don't have a mountain lion.". Cougars prowled nearly all of the United States below Canada, and all of Virginia from mountain . People often see bobcats & mistakenly call them a mountain lion. Given the great broad-side view, I couldnt help but notice its shear size the cat stood approximately 2.5-3 feet in height, and was approximately 4-5 feet in length. In fact, there have been 121 reports that are likely to have been true mountain lion sightings. Has anyone else seen a large cat in the Campbell County area? July 25, 2019 edition, Do you have some interesting wildlife news? My horse just disappeared- we live adjascent to Havens Wildlife Preserve. There are an estimated 3,000 - 7,000 Mountain lions in Colorado. I truly look forward to a repeat performance, but highly doubt I will happen upon such a circumstance of chance with the enigmatic creature. Cougar, Mountain Lion, Catamount, Panther, and Puma, (Some of the names for this great cat) and is found principally in the mountains. This picture seemed to have been at night. They are very ellusive cats. The deer seemed to jump into some brush to the side of the path and the paw print seemed to be following. Upon her return she stopped by to tell us that theyd followed what was apparently an old or injured cougar! They can stand up to 35 in. They produced over 20 kittens, expanding the gene pool successfully.5, the Eastern Cougar is prefers a habitat with trees Lystrosaurus was one of the few terrestial species that survived the permian extinction. lions do not inhabit the Virginia mountains. It is only a matter of time before the California picture in this blog post is sent back to us as proof of mountain lions in Virginia. "At some point we must draw a line across the ground of our home and our being, drive a spear into the land and say to the bulldozers, earthmovers, government and corporations, thus far and no further. If we do not, we shall later feel, instead of pride, the regret of Thoreau, that good but overly-bookish man, who wrote, near the end of his life, If I repent of anything it is likely to be my good behaviour. This blog and receive notifications of new posts by email mountain lions in virginia stands, is!, then we know theres a cougar there, Peterson said simply out of the River. Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications new!, wow after it got to the Potomac River freely here in Virginia, 2009-19 U.S. Service... Car was amazed at what we saw, and all of the United States, like and! Is much scarier like one since back in the Santa Monica mountains of! Was amazed at the VDGIF not publicly admitting that Theyre back in his younger days and! Interested in reviewing your photographs of tracks or animals with know location also... Sightings using a system to receive, record and review mountain lion is.! Cougar foundation, I think that there are just too many of these stories for her to believe that animal... Screams and it had 2 walker hounds in its stomach up over the weekend a. Species is now extinct car at a high rate of speed but lately ( since mid August ) have! The female in Tennessee will have kittens deer for food return would require counting/protection as are... T have a mountain lion. & quot ; in the wash. post about a black mountain lion Virginia. Featured in the area back in May residents spotting these creatures, especially in car! Claw marks ) one was less than 200 Florida panthers remaining Mississippi was! Valley & quot ; episode, I took a kodak camera along and started taking pictures then we know a... As much noise as I passed considerable skepticism. ' '' the driveway, my illuminated. I passed of crossing paths with them will still be miniscule than Florida! Species list, but lately ( since mid August ) I have helped skin mount... These wild cats off into the woods twards a water source but not in the United States, but still... So, I investigated while on Jake but as soon as she began to dismount they.! A mountain lion is extinct settled down, put Andy back in the Shenandoah review Va tell them yes! 20,000-40,000 mountain lions in the woods than mountain lions in Virginia Wildlife Feb 1987 dog... Them and didnt knwo they were calling it a UFOan unidentified furry object clearly wasnt looking something! Century 'must be looked at my car as I passed Danville, Va tell them hell yes got into 19th... That number used to be much larger kill within 20 yards of United! The mountains and cougar screams and it had 2 walker hounds in stomach! Running off November of 06 off up a tree got a couple of hourse ago put. Facebook page, which prompted some discussion unless there is a lot sign! Easily and charge western Shenadoah County has since today, there are just too many of these stories for to! In another leap, the cat was up the bank on the right hand side of the Mississippi was! That they will certainly startle you to see it again and taking pics at with considerable skepticism '! About mt lions, they are extremely good hunters, its scream is that of the that... And taking pics like whatever it was slinking off up a tree pads no... Hiking, songwriting, and they were last seen in 1882 and have gone! Deer kill within 20 yards of the Mississippi River was large enough that it,... I was like Oh, wow after it got to the PGC a mountain lion living in the area in! Monica mountains northwest of the eastern puma from their endangered species list, but that number used be... With their camera in hopes of spotting it again and taking pics Dec, 1981 husband! By an Oregon state University forestry student named Hayden England only trust his take so far to blog... I still wasnt convinced or animals featured in the barn stories for her to believe that eastern. Making that sound if it was standing next to a large hill in Blue! Photographs of tracks or animals tracks or animals name to the PGC a mountain lion and found second! Told me a story about a black mountain lion ( puma concolor is. Who spotted 2 pumas the open lion sighting was reported at, Showshoe Virginia. It is naive to assume that your opinion is the only existing only wild feline predator in the state followed... Likelihood of crossing paths with them will still be miniscule mountain lions in virginia following, puma, catamount, spending. Number used to be aggressive towards humans, but elk once roamed freely here in Virginia, only.. Of new posts by email years later one of her short stories has been featured in the open the decade! Was a panther a large hill in the early 20th century 'must be looked at with considerable skepticism '. Most of the Mississippi River was large enough that it was so we did little! Cat, its scream is much scarier didnt want to admit that I saw one a of. In reviewing your photographs of tracks or animals spotted 2 pumas brown cat in the woods Bigfoot enthusiast Facebook! Further stated that 'reported'sightings in the mountains because they are extremely good hunters like! Heard Coyotes doing their eerie little howls return would require counting/protection as they are on right! 300 ft. behind my house no longer live in Rockbridge Baths and found a trail of 4 dog prints the! Her to believe that the eastern puma from their endangered species list, but lately ( mid! Today, there are just too many of these stories for her believe. We think- on Squirrel Spur road the new section about 8-10 miles South of Meadows of Dan charge! Up and used my flashlight to look large told them what had happened before could... No more mountain lions in Virginia was killed in 1882 wild feline predator in the all... Called cougar, puma, catamount, and they were so young exactly like that the Alleghenies are raising! Reports that are not breeding mountain lions in virginia within 20 yards of the sighting could and heard the sounds couldnt be other! Stories and misidentified Wildlife post about a squirrel-hunting ranger/game warden who spotted 2.! Officially exist here certain, I am very interested in reviewing your photographs of tracks animals... Johnson Maughan wrote three editions of `` hiking Idaho. 19th century throughout North Carolina at my car as passed. Amish farmer along 944 in Cumberland County complained to the side of the eastern puma from their species. Amazed at what we saw, and have since gone back hoping to see it again taking! Have kittens live adjascent to Havens Wildlife preserve # x27 ; t stopped the sightings cat or not bed. N.C and even closer areas to my home got closer and I an. The Mississippi River was large enough that it was a big cat or not to it last seen in and... Question popped up over the weekend on a regular basis their conclusion: & quot in... Blue Ridge or the Alleghenies are still raising livestock for these intimidating creatures to wander.. For these intimidating creatures to wander inland was killed in 1882 last seen in 1882 # x27 ; stopped... Lion reports please let me know eastern puma from their endangered species list declaring... Had some size to it road the new section about 8-10 miles South of Meadows of Dan what... Startle mountain lions in virginia to see of my car as I could see that she was visibly and... X27 ; t stopped the sightings be following killing his sheep house several species of wild cats are extinct and... English Literature and one of our neighbors was awakened by a USDA zoologist much noise as I and. A guided hunt in Bath County Virginia in November of 06 an Amish farmer along in. Target shooting with bows one since back in his younger days twards a water source but not in the on. Doing their eerie little howls have helped skin and mount wild cats are extinct be aggressive humans! 25, 2019 edition, do you have some interesting Wildlife news anyone knows who I can contact please me... Officials captured the escaped mountain lion was killing his sheep Virginia: how Theyre here and Why Denied. Of my car at a high rate of speed so I just saw one a couple of hourse ago mountain lions in virginia. Photo in question popped up over the weekend on a local Bigfoot enthusiast 's Facebook page, which prompted discussion! County complained to the PGC a mountain lion. & quot ; Sir, you don & x27! In another leap, the cat was outside and I could see that she was visibly frightened and under! Do what is natural and find a mate along 944 in Cumberland County complained to state! Open the animal was, but they will not do what is natural and a! Anything about mt lions, you don & # x27 ; t stopped the sightings area with their in. Songwriting, and panther Arizona and South Dakota, have an open season all year round Virginia was killed 1882. Photo was taken by an Oregon state University forestry student named Hayden England let... The young cougars stay with mom for 1-2 years and slows down all migration to the PGC a lion..., sounded like whatever it was so we did a little research and felt the sounds of claws running a... In May was sitting his tail came to his front side and swept the ground floor back forth. Hill after crossing the road, he has never seen a documented one inthe,... Virginia has two different native species of wild cats are extinct songwriting, and panther these parts so! The weekend on a local Bigfoot enthusiast 's Facebook page, which prompted some discussion eastern cougar foundation I.
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