Local writer, outdoorsman searching for large cats

By By Larry Colombo
Published: August 12, 2008

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There has been a lot of discussion lately regarding the existence of large cats in Alabama, especially Barbour County.

By large cats, I am referring to panthers and/or cougars.

Nearly every hunter, farmer and outdoorsman I have talked to lately has either caught sight of, or knows someone who has seen or witnessed the presence of a black panther or a cougar of some size or description. Many of these eyewitnesses are of good moral character and will swear they were stone sober at the time of the sighting.

The Alabama Fish and Game Department for all practical purposes tends to believe that large cats such as panthers, cougars, pumas or mountain lions, do not exist in Alabama. Sightings are usually down played and regarded as merely a mistaken identity. However, can that many folks really be wrong? Are people really seeing what they think they are seeing?

I have decided to undertake a little research program regarding the existence of long-tail cats in and around our area. If enough evidence is produced, I have a magazine editor chomping at the bit to put this story together.

So, this is where I can use the help of area hunters and outdoorsmen. Have you seen, or know someone who has seen a cougar or panther in and around Barbour County? If so, I would sure like to hear from you? I know there are hundreds of trail cameras out in the woods today. Has anyone ever caught one on camera?

One expert I talked to almost guaranteed me that big cats do live in our state. They are not plentiful by any means, but they do exist.

If you have a story, I would love to hear from you. My cell number is (334) 750-7534. Give me a call and we will document your report. If there is enough response we will follow up with a report in the Eufaula Tribune in the very near future.

Thank you for your time and interest.