'Puma of Pontybodkin' sightings must be investigated 'before someone is hurt or worse', Welsh Tory urges ministers

Sightings of the ‘Puma of Pontybodkin’ must be investigated “before someone is hurt or worse”, a Welsh Tory has urged ministers.

The mysterious creature has been spotted at least twice in the north Wales countryside, which has prompted panicked residents to set up a monitoring group.

Darren Millar, the member of the Sennedd for Clwyd West, said that there have been a “spate of sightings” in the Welsh countryside of multiple unidentified animals.

"Many members of the farming community in particular are concerned about the impact that these may have on their livestock in the future,” he said.

"We need an urgent statement from the Welsh Government Minister responsible for rural affairs as soon as possible."

He added: "It is a real worry that seven years on we are still getting reports of big cats being spotted in our countryside here in North Wales.

"A thorough investigation is therefore needed urgently before someone is hurt or worse."

Tony Jones, of the Puma Watch North Wales group, said that the recent sighting had taken place within miles of other suspected reports.

Big cat sightings are being reported across Wales on a regular basis, with sightings also recorded in Mold, Corwen and Llangollen.

Welsh environment minister Lesley Griffiths said in a separate response to Rob Roberts MP that although no sightings have been confirmed, reports are currently being looked into.

Welsh Government officials will now examine the sites in question and carry out visits to take casts of paw prints and consult with wildlife experts.