Puma suspected of horse attack in Coylton

Jul 24 2009

POLICE are investigating a claim that a puma attacked a horse in Coylton on Friday.

The animal was found with slash marks on its hind quarters following the incident near Sundrum Holiday park.

Experts have been called in to examine the horse’s injuries.

And they claim they are likely to have been caused by a big cat.

This attack follows a sighting of a large cat in the park two months ago.

Police say that the horse is making a good recovery and urged the public to report any further sightings.

Supt John Hazlett, said: “After consultation with experts, the evidence points to a big cat, possibly a puma, having caused the injuries to the horse.

“There was a possible sighting of a large cat in the grounds of Sundrum Castle back in May, when a member of staff at the castle reported seeing a very large cat prowling the grounds one morning.”

And he assured the public that it is unlikely that the animal poses any risk to humans but warned farmers to be careful with their livestock.

He added: “I would also ask local farmers to take extra caution with their animals and to contact police if any of them are injured.”

The animal in the May sighting was said to be sandy in colour and about 4ft tall and 6ft long.