The possibility of seeing a mountain lion in Pennsylvania

PENNSYLVANIA — While mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are officially considered extinct in Pennsylvania, occasional reports of sightings continue to raise questions about their possible presence in the state.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service declared the Eastern cougar extinct in 2011, and it was formally removed from the endangered species list in 2018.

Despite this, residents across Pennsylvania have periodically reported seeing large, tan-colored cats resembling mountain lions.

Wildlife officials say most reports are likely cases of mistaken identity, often confusing bobcats, large domestic cats, or coyotes with mountain lions.

The Pennsylvania Game Commission has investigated numerous sightings but has found no confirmed evidence of wild mountain lions living in the state.

Some biologists believe that any sightings may involve mountain lions dispersing from western states, where populations are stable. Others speculate that escaped or released captive animals could account for some encounters.

Although there is no verified breeding population in Pennsylvania, authorities encourage the public to report sightings with photos or video to aid in any investigations.