Minnesota Hunters Should Report Any Cougar Sightings This Season

Fall is here, and that means a lot of hunters are out in the woods. There's something special about hunting season - that crisp morning air, changing leaves, and the thrill of the hunt. It's also about keeping up traditions and getting together with family and friends to enjoy our beautiful north woods.

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources uses hunter reports and information to help keep track of the wildlife in our area. Hunters need to be good at identifying different animals, and they can be a reliable source of information for conservation officers.

First Evidence Of Breeding Cougars In Minnesota In 100 Years

This year, there has been the first evidence of cougars breeding in Minnesota. Earlier this spring, the Voyageurs Wolf Project in Voyageurs National Park captured cougars on trail cameras. They found a mother and her two kittens on multiple cameras in the area, suggesting that they actually were breeding for the first time in over 100 years in Northern Minnesota. The DNR later confirmed the activity, and they are working to identify more cougars and patterns in the state.

Most Cougars Are Still From Out West, Passing Through

The DNR says that the majority of cougars are still transient, breeding in the Dakotas and further west and then finding their way through our area. But this development this spring could be a game changer.

The Minnesota DNR says that for cougars to be considered a native species again in Minnesota, multiple breeding cougars would need to establish a self-sustaining population in Minnesota.

Report All Cougar Sightings To Your Local DNR Office

The easiest way to identify a cougar is to know that their tails are almost as long as their body. Males are usually around 150 pounds, while females are about 100 pounds. Their head is smaller in relation to the body, which is usually about four to six feet overall. They are tan, with dark markings on the face and tip of the tail.

If you think you saw a cougar, the DNR asks you to report it to the nearest area wildlife office or conservation officer. Note the date, time, and location of the sighting along with a description. Take a photo if it is safe to do so. The DNR will use any evidence to investigate the presence of cougars.

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What To Do If You Encounter A Cougar

While extremely rare, if you do encounter a cougar, face them directly. Make yourself appear as large as you can by holding out your arms and standing tall. Wave clothing items, throw rocks and sticks at the animal, and yell.

If you are actually attacked, hit the animal in the face and head with anything nearby; don't run, don't crouch, and don't lie down. Make sure the animal has a clear escape route and stay above the animal.