Cougars are large, solitary wild cats. Rumors and anecdotal sightings of these elusive predators have circulated across Louisiana for years. This article explores the factual evidence of cougar sightings in the state, including official confirmations and their likely origins.
Confirming Their Presence
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has unequivocally confirmed the presence of cougars in the state, though these occurrences remain rare. Official confirmations rely on concrete evidence, such as DNA analysis from scat or hair samples, and verified trail camera photographs. For instance, a confirmed cougar sighting in 2002 at Lake Fausse Point State Park was substantiated by DNA analysis of scat found at the location.
The LDWF verifies these reports by investigating submitted evidence. In 2008, the LDWF confirmed two cougar occurrences through photographic evidence from trail cameras in Allen and Natchitoches Parishes. Another confirmed sighting in Morehouse Parish in 2016 marked the first verification in five years, again relying on a trail camera photo. While numerous sightings are reported, most cannot be verified due to a lack of physical evidence or are cases of mistaken identity, often involving bobcats or domestic cats.
Where Do They Come From?
Despite confirmed sightings, Louisiana does not have an established, breeding population of cougars. The confirmed individuals are typically transient or dispersing cougars, primarily young males, traveling long distances from established populations in neighboring states like west Texas or New Mexico. These young males travel hundreds of miles in search of their own territories, explaining their sporadic appearance in Louisiana.
Historically, cougars were native to Louisiana, but their populations declined significantly, leading to their extirpation decades ago. The last documented cougar mortality in Louisiana occurred in 1965. Current sightings represent individual animals dispersing into the state, not a re-established resident population.
Living Alongside Cougars
Given the rare, confirmed presence of cougars, residents should be aware of general wildlife safety guidelines applicable to large predators. If a cougar is sighted, it is important to remain calm and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, make yourself appear as large as possible by waving your arms or opening a jacket. Maintain eye contact and make noise to deter the animal.
If a cougar approaches or attacks, fight back aggressively using any available objects to strike the animal, aiming for the face or eyes. Never play dead if a cougar makes contact. Reporting credible sightings with physical evidence like photos or tracks to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is important for data collection and monitoring.