EDEN PRAIRIE, Minn. — Another south metro resident has reported a possible cougar - this time near Purgatory Creek.
A trail camera captured an image Monday afternoon, south of Cold Stream Lane and Sunnybrook Road, according to a news release.
Last week, Eden Prairie Police warned residents of a possible cougar sighting near Staring Lake and the City of Bloomington said residents spotted "a large cat on two different occasions."
The Purgatory Creek photo was submitted to the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, which is working with U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials to accurately identify the animal in the picture.
The DNR says there have been about 30 cougar sightings across the state in the last 15 years.
Last week, the City of Bloomington's website provided residents with tips if the public spots a cougar:
If a cougar is sighted or encountered, residents are asked to follow the below safety tips before calling the Bloomington Police Department.
- Keep calm.
- Make yourself look as large as possible and back away slowly, keeping the cougar in view, and allowing a clear exit for the cougar.
- Pick up children and small pets immediately.
- Never run or turn your back—sudden movements may provoke an attack.
