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Possible Mountain Lion Sighting On Doorbell Camera Sparks Community Concern
Guest Contributor
A viral video has sparked intrigue and concern in Rochester, New York, after what appears to be a large wild cat was captured on a residential street in the early morning hours. The footage, recorded by homeowner Stephany Baez’s Ring camera, shows a creature resembling a mountain lion—also known as a cougar—prowling through the Beechwood neighborhood near Grand Avenue and Culver Road. This potential sighting of a cougar in Rochester has prompted a wave of speculation and a flurry of 911 calls, as residents wonder: is there truly a big cat in the city?
The video, which Baez shared on Facebook, quickly gained traction, receiving over 388,000 views by the following afternoon. In the 30-second black-and-white clip, the animal moves quietly along the street, its long tail and sleek body leading many to believe it could be a cougar. Baez herself expressed alarm, writing that the animal didn’t resemble a dog or domestic cat and urging neighbors to bring their pets inside. “It is something scary and I don’t want anyone to get hurt,” she posted.
Rochester Police, responding to the public’s concern, have since received multiple reports of similar sightings. According to Lt. Anthony DelVecchio, some residents even reported seeing the animal miles away from the original location. One such report led to a temporary shelter-in-place order on Rauber Street after midnight on Thursday. Despite the growing number of reports, authorities have yet to find any physical evidence—such as tracks or droppings—to confirm the presence of a wild cat.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), which typically investigates such incidents, has not confirmed involvement in this case. According to DEC guidelines, investigations are launched only when there is tangible evidence or a known escape of a captive wild cat. In this instance, no zoos or wildlife facilities have reported a missing animal. The Seneca Park Zoo, home to big cats such as African lions, an Amur tiger, Canada lynxes, and snow leopards, confirmed that all of its animals are accounted for.
Historically, cougars have not inhabited New York State since the late 1800s. Nonetheless, the DEC receives reports of cougar sightings every year. Many of these are attributed to mistaken identity. The agency notes that animals such as bobcats, fishers, coyotes, and even large domestic dogs or cats are frequently misidentified as cougars. The DEC maintains a dedicated page for Eastern cougar sightings, including examples of falsely identified images submitted by the public.
Cougars, if present, are hard to miss. According to the DEC, these animals can weigh between 80 and 225 pounds and measure between 5 and 9 feet in length, including a tail that spans 26 to 32 inches. Given their size and rarity in the region, any confirmed sighting would be a significant event for wildlife experts and local communities alike.
While the video has captivated the public and stirred legitimate concern, authorities urge caution and vigilance. Lt. DelVecchio advised residents to remain indoors if they spot a large wild animal and to immediately contact 911. Until the authenticity of the video can be verified and physical evidence is found, the Rochester Police Department is treating the matter with care but without confirmation of a wild animal on the loose.
I found this detail striking: the rapid spread of the video and the community’s reaction underscore how social media can amplify local events into widespread discussions. In this case, a single surveillance video has sparked citywide alerts, media coverage, and public debate over wildlife in urban spaces.
Whether this animal truly is a mountain lion or simply a case of mistaken identity remains to be seen. What’s clear is that the incident has reignited public interest in the presence—or potential return—of cougars to New York State. For now, residents are advised to stay alert, keep pets indoors, and report any unusual wildlife sightings to the authorities.