Puma ‘spotted in Wales’ | PerthNow

A tourist on holiday in Wales claimed he saw a big cat “walking like a puma”.

The woman, identified only as Angelina, spotted a huge cat on the balcony of the cottage she rented near Mynydd Llandygai in North Wales on the evening of July 12 and said the beast was black and white but added it was “probably a panther”.

He told Puma Watch North Wales: “Looking after common land/woodland [the] balcony [my] holiday home and [a] big animal [was] We were standing 150 meters away looking at him.

“[I] I thought there was a collie waiting for him [its] until the owner turns and walks away. [It was] very feline with its long cat tail, [it] walked like a cougar”.

It comes after experts at Puma Watch North Wales issued safety advice for walkers and dog walkers in Wales after several big cat sightings.

Reports of big cats such as panthers and pumas roaming loose in Wales have increased in recent months, with Puma Watch North Wales claiming the rate of sightings has increased by 74 per cent in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year.

The organization has issued a set of safety guidelines as part of its Big Cat Awareness Campaign, which will run throughout July.

Summer safety guidance published online states: “The big cat species known to inhabit North Wales are reclusive, solitary animals that avoid contact with humans.

“Unless you deliberately approach or follow him, you are unlikely to show any aggression and he will likely disappear to safety before he can get within close range.

“If you are planning to visit an area known to be inhabited by pumas or other big cats, such as Eryri, the Clwydian Ranges or even Wepre Park, following these tips will minimize your chances of a frightening encounter with a big cat.”

The guide advised hikers to follow wide, designated trails, keep young children under close supervision and keep dogs on short leashes to “reduce the possibility of accidental ambushes.”

The safety guide adds: “Avoid walking or hiking alone, especially at dawn, dusk and night hours. Carry a (charged) mobile phone and ideally a flashlight. “Make loud noises as you walk so animals know you are approaching and can find safety. Consider carrying an air horn or whistle for emergencies.”