Saxony-Anhalt in excitement: Has a puma escaped?
A suspected big cat is causing a stir in the Saale district. Experts are looking for an animal, possibly a cougar, and recommend caution.

Saxony-Anhalt in excitement: Has a puma escaped?
A possible sighting of a large cat in the Saale district in Saxony-Anhalt is causing excitement. According to media reports, there have recently been several reports of a mysterious animal whose appearance closely resembles a puma. Loud ND Current It is recommended to exercise particular caution at Geiseltalsee. Authorities warn that activities such as dog walking and cycling in the area could be dangerous.
The public unrest led to the Federal Office for Civil Protection intervening in the situation. Experts are investigating the incidents and have already verified a video showing the animal, but the exact species remains unclear. The head of public order, Sabine Faulstich, emphasized that there was no immediate danger to people. After evaluating several films, an all-clear was even given: it was not a puma, but the animal's original species remains a mystery.
The search for wild animals
In the region, the Saalekreis district is using drones and helicopters to find the animal. Two sightings have been reported so far - including one at the popular Geiseltalsee. Many citizens responded to PETA's call to ban exotic wild animals in private households and so far there have been no anonymous tips about possible owners. At the same time, a calf was killed in the area and is currently being examined. WAZ describes that the district office would also like to install a wildlife camera to observe the animal more closely.
Important behavioral instructions for the public include, among other things, not to look the animal in the eyes and to back away slowly. Dogs should be kept on a leash to avoid possible attacks. Despite the excitement and justified precautionary measures, no owners of missing animals in the region have yet been reported. There was a similar case in the past where what was supposed to be a lion turned out to be two wild boars.
Exotic animals in Germany
The situation also raises questions about keeping exotic animals. As reported Echo24, the keeping of large cats is not regulated everywhere in Germany. While the most popular pets in this country are dogs and cats, some federal states have more relaxed regulations for exotic animals. In fact, predators such as pumas and even kangaroos can be legally kept, which alarms experts as this can lead to potential dangers to humans and animals.
The current incident in Saxony-Anhalt has reignited the discussion about keeping such animals. It remains to be seen what measures the authorities will take to ensure both the safety of the population and the welfare of the animals. Specialists are already warning about the risks associated with keeping exotic wild animals, as many owners often do not have the necessary knowledge to meet the animals' special needs.