USPCA investigates ‘big cats’ sighting

Wednesday, 10 June 2009

The USPCA is investigating the possiblity that two big cats could be on the loose in Co Down.

It comes after a group of walkers reported seeing two large, wild cat-type animals in the area of the Bloody Bridge in Newcastle on Monday.

Both animals were described as being about the size of a Labrador dog but with feline characteristics and black shiny coats.

A spokesman for the PSNI said: “While we would stress that the nature of any such animals which may be in the area has not yet been verified, or if any such animals are in fact dangerous, we would remind the public that if anyone does see an animal which they believe to be dangerous, they should not approach the animal. The location should be noted and police contacted immediately.”

David Wilson of the USPCA said the organisation was taking the sighting seriously.

He added: “We can’t just dismiss the sighting. The people were quite clear in what they saw. What we don’t want to do, however, is engage in scaremongering. We don’t want people going up to that area and trying to track them down.

“We do not have specific evidence that they are dangerous animals.

“There are plenty of reports of sightings all around the province but very little actual evidence, many reports are difficult to substantiate.”

In 2003, despite a massive air and land hunt, a big cat believed to have been a panther on the prowl in north Antrim was never found.

Seems a bit OTT Malachy. Leave the walkers alone! What they ever done to you?

Posted by NS | 11.06.09, 16:04 GMT

Post a complaint

Please note Name and E-mail are required.

Contact details

Shoot them !

Posted by Malachy McAnespie | 10.06.09, 17:39 GMT

Post a complaint

Please note Name and E-mail are required.

Contact details

NiteLife: White's Tavern

Had a big night out? Click here to send your pics

In Pictures: Lingerie Super Bowl 2012

In Pictures: Lingerie Super Bowl 2012

Women: Can you flaunt too much?

Women: Can you flaunt too much?

Old School Pictures: Ian Paisley

Old School Pics: Girls Aloud Nadine Coyle

To launch gallery click image or select school below

Methodist College, Campbell College, Grosvenor,
Bangor Grammar, Dunlambert, St Augustine's,
St Dominic's, Royal Academy, Ballymena Academy

Teletoons by Stevie Lee

Teletoons by Stevie Lee

Follow us on Twitter

In Pictures: The Troubles

Titanic Gallery: First class bedroom

Titanic Gallery: exclusive collection

Out & About: Pizza Night

Out & About: Pizza Night

Columnist Comments

gail_walker

Gritty, moving and heroic...Billy plays captured life here

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times ... Sunday's 30th anniversary screening of the seminal Too Late to Talk to Billy was riveting viewing. But it wasn't nostalgic viewing.
ed_curran

Parties need better defence in Stormont's game of two halves

Surprise, surprise. Peter Robinson has been to his first gaelic match, Martin McGuinness is heading for Windsor Park and the Ulster Unionists have scored another own goal.
nuala_mckeever

Why trying to go on a diet is never really a piece of cake

Some people make New Year’s resolutions, I make lists. Every new year I determine to keep track of everything I spend and everything I eat and drink.

frances_burscough

Scary movie? Their jaws were sore from laughing

Teenage boys love horror films and I have two who are in charge of the remote control in our house, so naturally there’s gore-a-plenty on the box most weekends. However, until recently one film was banned.

Just Born: Readers' Baby Pictures

Just Born: Readers' Baby Pictures

To send Us Your Baby snaps just Click here

Just Wed: Readers' Wedding Pictures

Just Born: Readers' Wedding Pictures

To send Us Your Wedding snaps just Click here

Latest Comments

Belfast Telegraph Home Delivery