Officials Confirm Mountain Lion Sightings in Southern Illinois

Well, this isn't something you see every day in Tristate.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has confirmed a mountain lion in Southern Illinois, following multiple sightings in Union and Jackson Counties.

While IDNR did not specifically say the animal was sighted in Shawnee National Forest, it does cover a portion of both counties. IDNR does believe the sightings are of the same animal.

According to IDNR, this is the 12th confirmed mountain lion in Illinois since 2002.

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Mountain Lions Are Rare Visitors to Illinois

Illinois does not have a known breeding population of mountain lions. Instead, individual animals occasionally wander into the state while searching for new territory.

Previous mountain lions confirmed in Illinois have been young males, generally between 2 and 3 years old. DNA testing has suggested those animals dispersed from western populations, likely originating in Nebraska and the Dakotas, according to IDNR.

If that's the case with this particular cat, it has covered a pretty incredible distance to make its way into Southern Illinois.

Mountain lions are highly mobile animals, so sightings of the same individual can occur across a fairly large area.

What Should You Do if You See a Mountain Lion?

First and foremost: leave it alone.

IDNR asks anyone who spots the animal to report the sighting to wildlife biologists. Photos or other documentation can also help biologists confirm sightings.

If you encounter a mountain lion at close range, and I cannot stress this enough, do not run. Wildlife officials advise making yourself look as large as possible, making noise, and slowly backing away. Give the animal plenty of space, and if possible, move inside a building or vehicle.

Whatever you do, definitely do not approach it for a better picture.

To report a mountain lion sighting in Illinois, visit the IDNR reporting page. You can also find additional information about mountain lions, as well.