Predator alarm at the Geiseltalsee: Puma or just a big cat?

Predator alarm at the Geiseltalsee: Puma or just a big cat?

at the Geiseltalsee in Saxony-Anhalt, a remarkable sighting causes excitement. On June 13, 2025, a large cat was sighted and the information did not reach the authorities until June 17, 2025. The police and fire brigade promptly reacted to the events and immediately went in search of the alleged puma, which has since ensured a certain predator altitude scenario. [Merkur] (https://www.merkur.de/deutschland/app-loest-aus-raubier-alarm-Sachsen-Anhalt-brauns-dra- Grosskatze-warn-Zr-93788302.html) reports on further sightings in the areas of Pfännerhall, Branderodaer Hohle and Am Weinberg Reifert.

To support the search, drones and helicopters were used. Despite all efforts, the authorities were optimistic that it could actually be a puma. On Tuesday, June 17th, a resident reported that a calf near the lake could have been torn by the large cat. This was reason enough to warn the population. A video that shows the supposed big cat was recorded by an employee of the district office. Experts have classified this video as authentic, although the image quality leaves something to be desired. On June 18, the district finally gave a cautious all -clear and reduced the search measures.

The search takes a turn

As chance, Mayor Steffen Schmitz von Braunsbedra found that the animal sought may be smaller than originally assumed. In view of a recorded video that should illustrate the proportions, he suspects that it is more of a larger domestic cat than a puma. MDR reports that the great excitement around the sighting has already led to a colorful mixture of speculation and adventurous stories.

The population was only informed on Monday after the first sighting after the animal had already been spotted on Friday. It remains unclear whether it is actually a puma or not. Police and fire brigade had to hire the search campaigns for the next few days, as there are no specific indications in sight beyond the sighting.

an extensive phenomenon

The sights of a large cat are not only limited to Saxony-Anhalt. Experts notice an increase in wildcat population in Germany in recent years. These fascinating animals that live in forests and can hide well are often endangered due to crossing streets and natural enemies. [Your animal world] (https://www.deine-tierwelt.de/magazin/Mehr-wildkatzen-in-deutschland- and-sie-gems-sich-mit-woelfen-an/) emphasizes that even if wolves are a threat, they usually hunt other animals and gain wild cats back on the ground over the years.

The events at the Geiseltalsee remind of similar incidents in the past. An example is the search for a supposed lion's view in Berlin, which ultimately turned out to be a wild pig. With the publication of rules of conduct for dealing with such unpleasant encounters, the authorities want to sensitize the population and at the same time encourage them not to look for or approach the animal. This could lead to Rogue Place to further misunderstandings, which is why the population is well advised to avoid their meadows and forests for the time being.

The district has already installed a wild camera to keep an eye on the animal, while Peta has controlled a reward of 500 euros for clues to the owner of the animal. It remains to be seen how things will go. One thing is certain: an exciting time is waiting for the residents of the Saalekreis.