I have cougar paw prints within 3 feet of my house. I have the picture on my cell phone and can send it to you. My husband stepped outside the sunroom to smoke about midnight and the thing growled at him.

This response was provided by Darryl Coates, Illinois Department of Natural Resources District Wildlife Biologist.

Good Afternoon Anne,

Thank you for reporting an unusual animal sighting. Physical evidence e.g., tracks, scat, photos, are important when it comes to identifying unknown animals. Our Living with Wildlife web site has a link to report unusual animal sightings to IDNR or you may report your findings to your local IDNR Wildlife Biologist. Contact information for IDNR Wildlife Biologists can be found on the "Find a Professional" page.