**Cougar Update**

We would like to verify that the wild cougar captured in Illinois is here at the Rescue Center.

He is a young male that was captured and radio collared in Nebraska and tracked to Illinois. He entered the city of Springfield and stayed several days where he was deemed a threat to public safety and was captured by state and USDA personnel. State authorities in both Nebraska and Illinois decided he was not releasable and he was placed here.

He does seem to be slightly injured and tick infested. As we have more information about him and his condition, we will update everyone on our website. We want to thank everyone for reaching out with their concern and help during this time.

News Article by WTHI

Our vet came out and sedated the cougar. Overall, he seems like a large healthy cat with good claws and teeth. It did uncover a flea infestation and a large scar going along his entire back. Most likely from squeezing under a fence, but hard to know for sure.

He was also moved to his temporary enclosure in our off-tour area. We have plans to start construction on a new larger enclosure for him.

The cougar boy is eating very well. He heavily favors deer meat over livestock meat. He loves exploring his enclosure and lounging high up and laying in the sun.

We can’t wait to be able to give his boy a more personalized name than NE 110 that was used to track his movements from Nebraska. Check back soon for information on how YOU can help us name this amazing animal.

UPDATE-Read below to see how to vote for his new name.

Construction has started on the new enclosure for the cougar. The enclosure will be well over an acre in size with lots of climbing and hiding structures. The enclosure will be in a private area and as stated above, he will not be visible to the public for his safety and comfort. The overall cost for this enclosure is estimated over $50,000 when completed. Pictures below show one of the climbing structures, part of one incomplete wall, and starting outlines of what will be the den box area.

Construction continues on the new enclosure for the cougar. Large logs and climbing structures have been added. Our director Joe Taft has been working on drainage as well. This part of the property was used as a corn field for years so it gathers water, but with proper drainage tracts put in soon that will not be an issue. Gravel is being added around the perimeter for drainage and safety purposes. See pictures below