Some north suburban residents are being warned to be on the alert after a possible cougar sighting on Sunday, Pioneer Press is reporting.
A Highland Park resident told police they saw a large, tan, feline-type animal, similar in stature to a cougar, walking in Old Elm Park, in the Highlands north of Half Day Road, on Nov. 25.
Highland Park police investigated after receiving a report Wednesday, but did not locate any tracks or other evidence confirming the identification of the animal.
However, police are telling residents to be alert, especially when outside with children and small pets.
In September, a resident of the 1100 block of Lincoln Avenue South, about two blocks west of Lake Michigan, also reported seeing a possible cougar.
And similar sightings were reported in Glencoe and Winnetka between April and September, but also remain unconfirmed.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources says there are no sustained populations of cougars in Illinois, but young cats have been known to pass through the Midwest from the Black Hills area of South Dakota.
The animals generally avoid populated areas and may be seeking deer as their primary food source.
Deterrents include bright, flashing white lights, and loud noise.
Residents are urged to use caution if an animal fitting the description is observed to immediately report sightings of suspicious animals to Highland Park police at (847) 432-7730.
Thursday, June 13 2013 1:45 PM EDT2013-06-13 17:45:09 GMT
Even a fire hydrant is feeling the Blackhawks spirit, especially after Chicago's midnight victory over the Boston Bruins at the United Center in triple overtime.
Even a fire hydrant is feeling the Blackhawks spirit, especially after Chicago's midnight victory over the Boston Bruins at the United Center in triple overtime.
Wednesday, June 12 2013 9:55 PM EDT2013-06-13 01:55:01 GMT
Forecasters say hot weather could give way to violent storms across parts of Illinois and are warning residents to be prepared for strong winds, hail and even tornadoes.
Forecasters say hot weather could give way to violent storms across parts of Illinois and are warning residents to be prepared for strong winds, hail and even tornadoes.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 6:27 PM EDT2013-06-18 22:27:58 GMT
A southwest suburban teen pleaded guilty to being drunk when he fatally struck a 4-year-old girl chasing a ball in the street has been sentenced to probation and community service.
A southwest suburban teen pleaded guilty to being drunk when he fatally struck a 4-year-old girl chasing a ball in the street has been sentenced to probation and community service.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 5:55 PM EDT2013-06-18 21:55:58 GMT
Police ask the Albany Park/Mayfair community to be vigilant, walk in pairs and avoid strangers, after a woman was sexually assaulted Monday night near the entrance to a CTA Blue Line station.
Police ask the Albany Park/Mayfair community to be vigilant, walk in pairs and avoid strangers, after a woman was sexually assaulted Monday night near the entrance to a CTA Blue Line station.
Tuesday, June 18 2013 2:56 PM EDT2013-06-18 18:56:25 GMT
After collecting tens of thousands of dollars for themselves on Wednesday, members of the General Assembly plan to kick the can of public employee pension reform down the road for at least one more month.
After collecting tens of thousands of dollars for themselves on Wednesday, members of the General Assembly plan to kick the can of public employee pension reform down the road for at least one more month.
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