Michigan Cougar Sightings Surge in 2026

Cougar sightings are becoming more common across Michigan, with more than a dozen confirmed so far in 2026.

The Apex Predator of Michigan

Cougars were largely eliminated from Michigan by the early 1900s, with the last known wild cougar legally harvested in 1906 near Newberry. However, since 2008, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources has confirmed more than 150 cougar sightings in the Upper Peninsula.

Cougars appear to be making a comeback in the state. In 2025, biologists documented and photographed two cougar cubs born on private land in Ontonagon County. The young animals have since been spotted and photographed multiple times and are reported to be thriving.

Cougar sightings are becoming increasingly common on trail cameras, with more photo and video evidence being captured. Residents across the Upper Peninsula are also reporting more frequent encounters with the animals.

Cougar Sightings Surge Across Michigan Woods

Photo by Priscilla Du Preez 🇨🇦 on Unsplash

According to WXYZ TV, there were 31 confirmed cougar sightings in 2025. So far in 2026, 13 sightings across 12 separate days. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has also expanded its network of trail cameras across the Upper Peninsula, alongside additional images and videos captured by landowners and hunters.

Get our free mobile app

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources notes that some reported cougar sightings may involve the same animal observed by different people, as cougars can travel 15 to 25 miles in a single day while hunting. Here is a list of the most recent sightings in 2026.

January 2 - 1 cougar
February 6 - 1 cougar
February 9 - 2 cougars
February 17 - 1 cougar
February 21 - 1 cougar
March 8 - 1 cougar
March 28 - 1 cougar
April 15 - 1 cougar
April 21 - 1 cougar
April 24 - 1 cougar
April 27 - 1 cougar
May 1 - 1 cougar

All 13 confirmed cougar sightings have been in the Upper Peninsula, but it may only be a matter of time before sightings are reported in the Lower Peninsula.

👇BELOW: 43 Photos of Michigan's Apex Predator👇

CONFIRMED COUGAR SIGHTINGS: 43 Photos of Michigan's Apex Predator

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) works with landowners and other agencies to track cougars in the state. Here's a look at confirmed photos of Michigan cougar sightings.

Gallery Credit: Scott Clow

Filed Under: Michigan DNR