Federal hunting officials say there is still no physical evidence there is a panther loose in the canton of Solothurn, but witness statements seem to indicate it’s there.

Federal hunting inspector Reinhard Schnidrig said an unknown animal was likely a black panther seen in southern Germany late last year. 

He told public television it needs to go.

“For one thing a panther is not a native animal.  Another thing, these big cats pose a potential danger for people,” he said. “And that, among other reasons, is why this panther needs to be removed. We can try to catch it, or if the police decide there is a danger or a risk, then the animal must be shot.”

Melanie Schmid with the Solothurn cantonal police, said the animal is shy and should not pose a direct threat to the public.