Gun-Toting Hunters Tracking Killer Cats.
HUNTERS armed with guns have been tracking the north coast's killer wild cats after the USPCA and police abandoned their search for the prowling beasts.
The USPCA is now appealing for the puma and panther, which have been on the loose for seven weeks, to be left alone so that they can integrate into the north Antrim countryside.
"We are saddened to learn that groups of men with lights and dogs and doubtless guns were seen entering woodland at night and disturbing and damaging the environment," said Stephen Philpott, chief executive of the USPCA.
"Our attempts to recapture the animals were primarily to ensure they were carried out in a humane manner by keeping the 'lurcher and hunting brigade' away from the search."
The two wild cats, which were deliberately released by a private collector, have so far evaded capture by the USPCA and the police.
However, the animals continue to be spotted by residents living within a 20-mile area between Ballymoney and Ballycastle.
Police are continuing to receive phone calls daily from people who believe they have seen either the sandy coloured puma or black panther on their property.
Over the weekend the puma is believed to have been spotted close to a hen house at a farm near Dervock, while other reports indicate that the wild cats have been spotted roaming in housing estates in Bushmills.
Tranquillising the animals has now almost been ruled out as the gas operated guns would require a clear two-metre proximity to effectively drug the animals.
Police Wildlife Liaison Officer, Mark Mason, is continuing to urge people who see the cats to call their nearest police station so that the sightings can be logged.
The Belfast Telegraph: 29th September 2003.