Mountain lion confirmed in Southern Illinois

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) has confirmed the presence of a mountain lion in Southern Illinois following multiple sightings in Union and Jackson Counties. Officials believe the sightings involve the same individual animal.

This marks the 12th confirmed mountain lion in Illinois since 2002. The state does not have a known breeding population; instead, individual animals occasionally wander into the region while searching for new territory. Previous confirmed sightings in the state have typically involved young males, often originating from western populations in areas such as Nebraska and the Dakotas.

Wildlife officials advise the public to leave the animal alone and report any sightings or documentation to biologists. In the event of a close encounter, experts recommend making oneself look large, making noise, and backing away slowly rather than running.