Big cat spotted, still
By Willie Kiernan
Mountain lion
Rumors abound in Erieville regarding a large feline.
“We watched for about five minutes as it walked down the side of the hedgerow,” said Alan Dailey, owner of Old State Auto Repair.
Several people in the area have said they’ve seen a large cat, including employees at the Johnny Appleseed furniture store. The cat matches the description of a mountain lion with tan colors and a long tail. However, Senior Wildlife Biologist for the DEC out of Cortland, Lance Clark said he is doubtful that the predator is an actual mountain lion.
Bobcat
“Somebody had a trail cam in that area last year and what they saw was a bobcat,” Clark said.
Due to disappearing farms and population growth further east, many wild animals have been migrating into the area, including coyote, fisher and bear.
“The guy down the road called the DEC and someone said they planted three mountain lion couples in the area to control the deer population, but they deny it,” Dailey said.
Clark declared the anonymous claim ridiculous.
“There are cases where people have pets,” Clark said. “Maybe one escaped or was let go.”
Dailey said he was told shooting the cat was unlawful.
“I’ve got 40 beef cattle and two horses,” Dailey said. “The DEC guy said if I shoot it I’d better have one ripped up livestock. I have to sacrifice one of my animals for this?”
Clark said there were no livestock attacks or bodies reported to warrant a deeper investigation.
“My wife used to walk up the hill to pick berries; now she won’t,” Dailey said.
To report an incident, call the DEC at 607-753-3095, ext. 247.
