In recent weeks, a sense of mystery has descended upon the residents of Rapides Parish as reports of a possible black panther roaming near the levee banks of Lower 3rd Street have circulated through the community. Locals claim to have seen and heard what they believe is a majestic black panther, sparking both intrigue and speculation.
One eyewitness, Ken Lee, recounted a startling encounter, saying, “We were in a tent, and heard something that sounded like a baby crying at first. And then, the sound turned to something else. I saw a big black cat, and I knew to mind my business from over there.” Lee described the creature as being the size of an animal one might expect to find in a zoo, leaving a lasting impression on those who heard his account.
Photographs of large paw prints discovered beside a size 13 sandal have surfaced, deepening the intrigue surrounding the sightings. While some locals believe these prints are compelling evidence of a large cat’s presence, others are quick to point out that a cougar with a genetic mutation causing black fur could also be a plausible explanation.
One resident speculated, “It’s possible there’s a cougar making its rounds with a genetic mutation that causes its fur to be black, or a really dark brown.” Which certainly gives more weight to the sighting.
Read more here: wgno.com