This was recorded on May 15th 2024, about a month after the episode with Paul MacDonald, as an update with some new Big Cat News!
This bonus episode is a short update on the ongoing search for big cats in the UK, following up on a previous, more in-depth episode. The main focus is the recent discovery of Panthera genus DNA (DNA from the group including panthers, leopards, lions, and tigers) on a sheep carcass in Cumbria, a region known for big cat sightings. This DNA evidence, collected by experienced big cat investigator Sharon Larkin Snowden, supports the claims of local residents who have reported seeing animals like black panthers.
We discuss the details of the DNA analysis, conducted at the University of Warwick, and the challenges of identifying the specific species due to the limited amount of DNA. We also touch upon the broader topic of big cat sightings in the UK, mentioning other recent reports and the work of enthusiasts and citizen scientists.
The episode concludes with a brief discussion about the potential conservation implications of confirming the presence of big cats, including the delicate balance between protecting these animals and addressing concerns about livestock predation.
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