You Can Own a Lion in Wisconsin but You Shouldn't
In one of the less controversial cat-related stories sweeping the country, there seems to be a lion of some kind prowling the streets of Milwaukee. Police were initially skeptical that a big cat was wandering the streets, but 14 phone calls, two police sightings, and one grainy cell phone video later, they're taking the possibility more seriously. On July 27 around 7pm, police at 30th St. and Fairmount Ave. responded to an eyewitness sighting of the animal. First sighted on July 20, the possible-lion is instilling feelings of caution, shock, and skepticism throughout the city.
The mane questions are: what kind of animal is it, and how did it get into the streets? Jill Carnegie, a 43 year veteran of exotic animal rescue, believes that because it is too small to be an African lion, it is likely a mountain lion. As for how it got out and about, experts are divided. Some suggests that while cougars are more common further north in the state, it's possible that one has moved out of its habitat and into the city. However, other experts have suggested that it is more likely an animal that someone had been keeping as a pet.
As a pet, you say?
As it turns out, Wisconsin is one of only five states in the Union that doesn't prohibit the importation of exotic, big cats. While local ordinances usually prohibit owning them within city limits, there is no mandatory registration system for owning them. It's just suggested that you let the police know you're keeping a fabulous white tiger in your rec room.
Because no internet-famous 21st, century animal is complete without one, the notorious cat has opened a Twitter account to proudly share his whereabouts with the people of Milwaukee. Watch this space for updates on the Mysterious Milwaukee Cat.
omg people you don't need huge wire traps just put out a big cardboard box #ifitfitsisits
— Milwaukee Lion (@milwaukee_lion) July 29, 2015
