2026-09-04 12:00:38
Sightings of big cats on the loose in the UK have reportedly increased due to the prolonged drought and heatwave conditions.
Wildlife enthusiast Frank Tunbridge – who has spent years studying claims of big cats on the loose in the UK – claims the extreme weather seen across the country this summer has had an impact on reported sightings as he’s convinced the soaring temperatures have driving the cats out of hiding as they search for water sources.
According to Gloucestershirelive.co.uk, Frank said: “Normally these elusive predators are secretive, and you have to be in the right place at the right time to see one.
“But every time there is extreme weather we see changes in their habits, and this overwhelming heatwave and drought has changed the habits of these British Big Cats and brought them more in contact with people, especially in the South West and Wales.
“They have become more bold in their search for water sources and have ventured further afield.”
He added: “A similar situation occurred a few years ago when we had another extended spell of extremely hot weather. At that time I received quite a few reports of these large felids taking a drink from garden ponds and cattle troughs.
“One was spotted drinking from an ever-running water source at the local Robinswood Hill Country Park.”
Frank also believes the habits of the cats’ prey draws them out as they appear at dawn and duck to catch deer when they are drinking.
However, Rick Minter, who hosts the Big Cat Conversations podcast, disagrees with the theory that sightings have increased due to the heatwaves – insisting big cats are more likely to be driven into more secluded, shady areas when it is hot.
According to the website, he said: “If anything these cats are less likely to come out in the open in hotter weather, and they stay in or close to cover, mostly.
“Most reports are dawn and dusk many are at night in car headlights, so the two hot summers [in 2025 and 2026] have not influenced sightings in my view.
“These cats, such as black leopards and mountain lions, can hydrate from their prey such as deer, to some degree, although they do need to drink water as well.”
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