Report from Mick Orsi
Lynx-like cat seen in Ayrshire
Around 21 st January 2003
Got call today from experienced country sports chap who is
a member of a syndicate shoot in Ayrshire (precise location unknown).
2 weeks ago on shoot- beaten pheasant, noticed unusual strong smell,
unlike fox or other scent known to the guy, then dogs flushed animal
from cover 10-15 feet from him and other guns, animal ran across
firebreak into other cover.
Described as larger than springer
spaniel, smaller than German SH pointer, approx 25-30kg, grey coat,
unsure of texture but not smooth, long powerful hindlimbs, no tail
noticed.
Put dogs in after it, some unsure, milled about but wouldn't
follow.
Didn't find trail out of cover, possible cat was treed but no-
one thought to look up!
He says he has smelled the scent before in
the same area and there has been increased sheep losses according to
local farmer but unknown if predated at present.
He collected what he
describes as a large furball with 2" grey hair in it which he will
forward to me and hopefully will be suitable quality for analysis.
Have advised him on sign etc etc and possibility of investigation.
Around 21 st January 2003
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