A Mountain Lion Is Roaming Northwest Iowa And It’s Fascinating

The state of Iowa is full of all kinds of mega and micro fauna you may not expect to see. Animals like moose, black bears, and yes, even armadillos can be spotted roaming through the Hawkeye State. While these creatures may startle the average Iowan, should they come across them, they are just passing through and it's best to leave them be.

Another large megafauna has also been seen "passing through" Iowa, as recently as last week, although this one has local residents more than a little skittish as of late. A mountain lion...

But where was this magnificent beast seen last and where did it come from anyway?

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According to recent reports, the cougar is a male, less than two years old and has been in the northwest part of Iowa for around two weeks. The Iowa DNR says the lion has traveled a significant distance, as it was originally tagged and collared in North-Central Nebraska.

The Iowa DNR stresses for residents who may come across the animal, not to shoot it, as it has yet to bother anyone and is just passing through the area. For safety reasons, the DNR is not disclosing exactly where the Mountain Lion is, as it is feared that residents may go out searching for the animal.

Since 2001, the DNR has confirmed at least 50 Mountain Lion sightings in the state, with most of them being young males in the northwest, passing through. Mountain Lions do not have an established presence in Iowa, although confirmed sightings are on the rise.

To learn more about this story, along with an audio interview with the Iowa DNR, check out the original article from KSCJ here.

Story Sources: KSCJ Website, MSN Website, Iowa Sportsman Website