Source : Perth Now news
An organisation which tracks sightings of big cats on the loose in the UK has condemned the actions of “malicious” hoaxers.
The team at Puma Watch North Wales are dedicated to investigating reports from members of the public who claim to have spotted large beasts roaming the countryside but they were recently duped by a hoax video which purported to show a panther lurking in Wales.
The organisation has now condemned the pranksters declaring they “waste time” and undermine “the credibility of true accounts”. A statement posted on the Puma Watch North Wales Facebook page, stated: “Earlier today we posted a video submitted via our online sighting report form where a member of the public claimed to have spotted an animal which they believed to be a panther in Conwy County.
“After posting this, we were made aware of audio in the video which contained strong language and … other offensive remarks suggesting the person filming did not really believe they were looking at a panther or big cat … This video has now been removed from all our channels.
“We try to take all reports in good faith … However, on this occasion we got it wrong and this video should never have been published.”
The statement went on to condemn hoaxers who “deliberately” create false reports, adding: “We also condemn those who deliberately submit hoax reports.
“This malicious behaviour wastes the valuable time of our volunteers, time that should be spent processing our backlog of genuine sightings.
“Furthermore it undermines the credibility of true accounts and may discourage individuals who genuinely believe that have encountered a big cat from coming forward. “
The hoax comes after the organisation launched Big Cat Awareness Campaign in July which led to surge in reports of sightings.
As part of the campaign, the group issued safety advice for hikers and dogwalkers in Wales following a spate of big cat sightings.
Reports of large cats such as panthers and pumas on the loose in Wales have surged in recent months with Puma Watch North Wales claiming sightings have increased by 74 per cent in the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year.
The organisation’s safety guidelines state: “The species of big cat known to inhabit North Wales are reclusive, solitary animals which avoid human contact. “Provided you don’t deliberately approach or follow one, it’s very unlikely to show any aggression and will likely disappear into safety before you reach any close distance.
“If you’re planning to visit an area where pumas or other big cats are known to live, such as parts of Eryri, the Clwydian Range, or even Wepre Park, following these tips will minimise your chances of a frightening encounter with a big cat.”
