Source: County Times
Date: March, 2025
Location: Wales
A picture of a cat and an associated footprint have been reported from the Wales/England border.
The witness was reported to have been shocked at the size of the black cat at the bottom of the field, and managed to take a picture before it jumped over the fence. Like many photos taken in this context, it is hard to discern exactly what the picture shows, the tail does seem to be feline, but as there is no sense of scale, it cannot be ruled out as a domestic cat.
However, in this instance there is a footprint photograph associated with the sightings. Corroborating evidence is always useful when a sighting is reported as it adds more context to the sighting. If the footprint is feline and far too large to be a domestic cat, then it means the photograph likely shows a big cat.
Rotated image from Bethany Jones, via County Time. Taken for analysis. Read full article here: https://www.countytimes.co.uk/news/24990216.animal-spotted-powys-field-called-panther-residents/
Lines added to show rough outline of the toe and heel impressions
Yellow dots showing locations of perceived claw marks
In my opinion, this is the footprint of a dog. The shape of the heel pad and alignment of the toes, when compared to the below graphic are exact matches. And the presence of what I believe are claw marks convinces me that this is a dog. Interestingly, the witness reported that this is a private field and therefore they never get any pet animals walking in the field. This just goes to show that you can never be sure, as they clearly have a dog unknowingly walking through!
