Novi, Michigan, August 23, 2025
News Summary
A woman in Novi claims to have seen a cougar near West Road and West Park Drive, igniting discussions among locals and prompting a response from wildlife officials. While Jennifer Hoover reported the sighting and described the animal as a smaller juvenile, experts from the Michigan DNR maintain there is insufficient evidence of cougars in the Lower Peninsula. The public is encouraged to report sightings as wildlife officials monitor the situation.
Novi, Michigan – A woman from Novi has sparked an online debate following her claim of a cougar sighting in the city on a Wednesday afternoon. The reported sighting occurred at the intersection of West Road and West Park Drive around 2 p.m., according to a post in the City of Novi Community Forum.
Jennifer Hoover, the individual who posted the sighting, described the animal as smaller in size with a long tail and a black tip, estimating its weight at about 40 pounds, which she suggested could indicate it was a juvenile cougar. Hoover subsequently reported her sighting to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), which officially tracks such encounters.
The post has garnered significant attention, with numerous commenters supporting Hoover’s account, sharing that they have seen similar sightings in the area both recently and in the past. The location of the sighting is equipped with a large wetland, which experts suggest could provide a suitable habitat for wildlife, including cougars.
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding the sighting, officials from the DNR have stated that there is little to no evidence confirming the presence of cougars in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, which includes Novi. According to Brian Roell, a large carnivore specialist with the DNR, the first confirmed cougar sighting in the Lower Peninsula since the species was eradicated in the early 1900s occurred in 2017. While most verified sightings have taken place in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, there have been recent reports near Lansing as well.
The DNR has noted that a confirmed sighting of a cougar cub occurred in Ontonagon County in March, leading to speculation about the existence of a breeding population in the Upper Peninsula. However, Roell emphasized the DNR’s need to scrutinize reported instances due to the prevalence of misidentifications and potential hoaxes associated with cougar claims.
Cougars are primarily documented in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, where they often disperse from breeding populations established in the Nebraska-Dakotas region. The DNR further explained that various barriers, such as natural landscapes and urban development, make it difficult for cougars to migrate into the Lower Peninsula.
The public is encouraged to report any cougar sightings through the DNR’s Eyes in the Field program, which allows for the public documentation of potential encounters. Reports should include as much detail as possible, and any available evidence, such as photographs or videos, is appreciated. Furthermore, cougars are classified as a protected species under Michigan’s Endangered Species Act, allowing for limited action only to safeguard human life or livestock in certain circumstances.
Attempts to reach Hoover for further comments on her sighting were unsuccessful. As this situation develops, the DNR continues to monitor the reports shared by the public, emphasizing the importance of accurate information in maintaining wildlife conservation efforts.
FAQ
What was the reported sighting of a cougar in Novi?
A woman named Jennifer Hoover claimed to have seen a cougar crossing the street at West Road and West Park Drive around 2 p.m. on a Wednesday. She described the animal as small with a long tail and a black tip.
What did the DNR say about cougars in the Lower Peninsula?
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources stated that there is little evidence of cougars in the Lower Peninsula. Most confirmed sightings occur in the Upper Peninsula, with few reported in urban areas like Novi.
What should people do if they see a cougar?
The public is encouraged to report any cougar sightings using the DNR’s Eyes in the Field program. It’s important to provide details and evidence such as photos or videos when possible.
Are cougars protected in Michigan?
Yes, cougars are protected under Michigan’s Endangered Species Act. They cannot be harmed unless it is to protect human life or livestock, and only under specific permits.
Key Features of the Cougar Sighting
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | West Road and West Park Drive, Novi, Michigan |
| Reported By | Jennifer Hoover |
| Sighting Time | 2 p.m. on Wednesday |
| Cougar Description | Smaller size, long tail, black tip, estimated weight of 40 pounds |
| DNR’s Stance | Little evidence of cougars in Lower Peninsula; request for public reporting |
| Cougar Protection | Protected under Michigan’s Endangered Species Act |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Cougar Cubs Spotted in Ontonagon County
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press
- Click On Detroit
- WHMI
- CBS News
- Fox 2 Detroit
- Wikipedia: Cougar
- Google Search: Cougar sightings Michigan
- Google Scholar: Cougar Michigan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cougar
- Google News: Cougar sightings
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
