DNR Confirms First Ever Footage Of Cougar Kittens In Minnesota
Cougar sightings are rare in Minnesota. They were once native to the Land of 10,000 Lakes over a hundred years ago, with breeding populations. The Minnesota DNR has long stated that cougars seen in Minnesota are roaming and not native to the state. That may have been the case. It still probably is the case, but that could be changing with new footage from the Voyaguer Wolf Project.
Cougar Footage From Voyageur's National Park
The Voyageur Wolf Project is a study headed by the University of Minnesota to document, study, and explore wolf and other wildlife behavior in the Voyageur National Park in Northern Minnesota.
The Voyagueurs Wolf Project routinely posts stunning wildlife photos from their trail cameras set up throughout the park. This time, it was a sight we've never seen: cougar kittens. These adorable cats will grow up to be fierce predators. The two kittens can be seen with their mother.
Cougars Still Not Considered Native To Minnesota
The cougars have established breeding areas west of Minnesota into the Dakotas and Nebraska. Deer hunters have been reporting cougar sightings in Minnesota for years, although it's rare. I once witnessed a cougar on our family property near Cook, Minnesota. They are easy to identify because of their very long tails.
The DNR says that for the cougars to be considered a native species, multiple breeding cougars would need to establish a self-sustaining population over a period of years. The DNR will monitor any developments to see if Minnesota will once again be considered a home for these big cats.
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Gallery Credit: Angela Underwood