The Michigan Department of Natural Resources reports 21 confirmed cougar sightings in 2025, down slightly from 23 in 2024 but higher than in earlier years. Most sightings were in the Western Upper Peninsula. The agency also confirmed the first cougar cubs seen in more than 100 years on private land in Ontonagon County, as reported Audacy.
State data show cougar sightings in Michigan have increased since before 2008 and have been recorded in every month this year except August, as per WXYZ. The confirmed sightings include adult males and, for the first time in recent years, cubs. Sightings have been reported across the state, including near Paradise and Munising, with three recorded on video and 18 confirmed by photographs. The confirmed reports are being used to track the species’ return to areas where cougars were previously absent.
Cougars are protected in Michigan and recent sightings have risen partly because trail cameras are capturing the animals in areas where they were once thought absent. “The DNR said a majority of the big cats spotted have been adults males, but there were two cubs verified this year,” according to Brian Roell of the DNR, as stated by Audacy. Officials advise residents not to run if they encounter a cougar, but to stand firm, back away slowly, and give the animal space.
