12:58am UK, Thursday January 12, 2012
A big cat may be on the loose and killing deer in Gloucestershire, experts have warned.
Dog walkers discovered the mutilated carcass of a roe deer on National Trust land near Stroud last week.
The injuries to the neck of the deer and the way the carcass had been consumed are believed to be highly indicative of big cat activity.
Experts have taken DNA samples from the remains of the deer to see whether a big cat, such as a puma or panther, could have killed it.
Local big cat expert Rick Minter, who has visited the site of the discovery at Woodchester Park, said: "It is very helpful to have this forensic study of the deer carcass.
"The consistent feedback I receive from people about possible big cats is that the animals should be studied, so we can learn about the subject.
"Studying likely evidence such as this will help us become more informed.
Mr Minter added: "Although people occasionally report a possible big cat from a distance, close up encounters with such cats are rare.
"Their hearing and movement are exceptional, which helps them avoid close contact with people."
"In the event of a close-up encounter, you should stay calm and face towards the animal as you back off, but not threaten or aggravate it.
"The chances are it will have backed off very quickly first."
