The wildcat on the loose in Suffolk County continues to evade capture. First spotted on Wednesday, July 27, some suspect it might be a Lynx or a Lynx-hybrid.
The wildcat was first spotted in Central Islip and has been spotted several times in the vicinity. The search has prompted Strong Island Animal Rescue to get involved in the search. Now, the cat has made national headlines as its placement and origin leave many unanswered questions.
Currently, the most proposed and accepted theory is that it is someone’s escaped pet, illegally purchased.
At the time of reporting, no police reports were filed indicating a missing wildcat, further lending credence to the theory that it is an illegal pet.
Felines are more active at night, so that is when people near the sightings
should be most aware of the cat. Also, given the animal is a pet, it is most likely hungry and searching for an easy meal.
If spotted, please contact the authorities, and do not try to capture the animal yourself. The Sweetbriar Nature Center in Smithtown has told media outlets that it will give the wildcat a home if the animal is found.
