DNR Confirms First Ever Cougar Hit by a Car in Michigan

Even though Michigan has seen a record number of cougar sightings this year, they're still pretty rare. That might be starting to change, though, because one was recently hit by a vehicle in the Upper Peninsula.

State wildlife officials confirmed that a cougar was actually struck by a car in the U.P., something that has never officially happened in Michigan before. It happened after dark on November 15 on M-26 in northern Houghton County.

According to MLive, conservation officers showed up, searched the area, but didn't find the cougar. No tracks, no blood trail, no sign of where it went. The only reason they know for sure it was a cougar is because they pulled a tiny tuft of hair and the sheath from a single claw off the vehicle. DNA testing confirmed it was a cougar.

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The DNR sent the samples to a lab in Montana to figure out where this cougar came from. Was it a Michigan-born cat or one that wandered in from out west, as so many have in the past? We won’t know for a few months.

Cougar sightings in Michigan have already smashed records this year, with 30 confirmed. And with the discovery of two cubs back in March, it’s becoming harder for experts to say these cats are just passing through. Something is definitely changing in the U.P. wildlife scene.

12 Animals You Must Report If You Hit Them in Michigan

Ever hit an animal while driving in Michigan? Well, it turns out some of them need to be reported. We'll break down the animals you have to call in if you hit them. It’s not just about doing the right thing; it’s also about avoiding any legal issues.

So, who do you call? If you hit one of these animals, you’ll want to contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or local law enforcement. If it’s an actual emergency, call 911; otherwise, just dial the non-emergency number. They’ll handle the situation and make sure everything's squared away. Just don’t forget to report it.

Gallery Credit: Tony LaBrie

2025 Update: 8 Animals You Can Hunt Year Round in Michigan

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Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

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Source: Cougar Hit by a Car in Michigan for the First Time Ever

Filed Under: Upper Peninsula, Cougar