Govind Tekale
In a remarkable wildlife discovery, cougar cubs have been confirmed in Michigan’s wilderness for the first time in over 100 years. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) verified the presence of two cougar cubs, estimated to be 7-9 weeks old, on private land in Ontonagon County in the western Upper Peninsula.
The spotted cubs were photographed on March 6 by local residents who initially mistook them for bobcats. After analyzing the photographic evidence, wildlife officials confirmed on March 13 that these were indeed cougar cubs – marking a historic moment for wildlife conservation in the state.
Brian Roell, a wildlife biologist and large carnivore specialist with the Michigan DNR who led the verification team, described the significance of this discovery: “It’s pretty exciting, considering this could be the first known cougar reproduction in modern times in the western Great Lakes states. It really shows that we have a unique place in Michigan where someone has a chance to see a wolf, a moose and a cougar in the wild.”
Conservation Importance
Cougars are listed as endangered mammals in Michigan, making it illegal to hunt or harass them – including attempting to locate their den. The sighting of these cubs represents a potential turning point for a species that was hunted to local extinction in Michigan in the early 1900s.
While the DNR has verified 132 adult cougar reports in recent years, DNA testing had previously confirmed only male cougars in the state. This new evidence of reproduction suggests that female cougars are also present in Michigan’s ecosystem.
The cubs were photographed without their mother, raising concerns about their survival. “Those young cougars are very vulnerable right now,” noted Roell. “We don’t know where they are or if they’re even alive. Mother Nature can be very cruel.” Cougar cubs typically stay with their mothers for up to two years, depending heavily on them for survival.
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Public Awareness and Safety
The DNR encourages Michigan residents to report any cougar sightings through their “Eyes in the Field” reporting system. However, they strongly caution against attempting to locate or approach the animals.
For those who might encounter a cougar in the wild, safety recommendations include:
- Do not approach the animal
- Do not run away
- Stay calm
- Avoid squatting, crouching, or bending over
The photographers who spotted the cubs correctly reported their finding to authorities rather than attempting to get closer or disturb the animals. This responsible behavior highlights the importance of community involvement in wildlife conservation efforts.
Ecological Significance
The presence of reproducing cougars in Michigan points to a healthy ecosystem that can support apex predators. Roell emphasized this ecological importance, stating: “It’s something that should be celebrated, that we have the habitat to support an elusive animal like this.”
As this story develops, wildlife officials will continue monitoring for additional evidence of cougar activity in the region. The DNR maintains a cougar sightings photo page at Michigan.gov/Cougar for those interested in learning more about these elusive predators.
For now, this historic sighting offers hope for the return of a species once thought permanently lost to Michigan’s wilderness.
FAQ
What makes this cougar cub sighting historically significant?
This is the first confirmed sighting of cougar cubs in Michigan in over 100 years, since the species was hunted to local extinction in the early 1900s. It provides evidence that cougars are not just passing through Michigan but potentially establishing a breeding population.
Where exactly were the cougar cubs spotted?
The cubs were photographed on private land in Ontonagon County in Michigan’s western Upper Peninsula on March 6, 2025. The exact location has not been disclosed to protect the animals.
How many cougar sightings have been confirmed in Michigan?
According to the Michigan DNR, they have verified 132 adult cougar reports in recent years. However, prior to this discovery, DNA testing had only confirmed male cougars in the state.
What should I do if I encounter a cougar in the wild?
If you encounter a cougar, do not approach it or run away. Stay calm, make yourself appear larger, speak in a firm voice, and avoid crouching or bending over. If attacked, fight back. Report any sightings to the DNR through their “Eyes in the Field” system.
Are cougars dangerous to humans?
Cougars generally avoid human contact and attacks are extremely rare. They are elusive animals that prefer to avoid people. However, they are powerful predators, which is why safety precautions should be followed if you encounter one.
What is the legal status of cougars in Michigan?
Cougars are listed as endangered mammals in Michigan, making it illegal to hunt, harass, or harm them in any way. This protection includes not attempting to locate their dens or disturbing their habitats.
