A mountain lion has been confirmed in San Marcos, Hays County, for the first time, according to city officials—raising concern after a series of unexplained deer deaths in the area. The big cat was spotted by a city trail crew member on the morning of April 17 at Purgatory Creek Natural Area, a 570-acre park in central Texas known for its rugged terrain and dense brush.
The encounter happened early Thursday, April 17, at Purgatory Creek Natural Area, a 570-acre park in San Marcos known for its rugged trails and wildlife. The employee, a member of the city’s trail crew, spotted the cougar descending from a tree near Dante Trail in the Middle Purgatory area. Within seconds, the animal disappeared into the brush.
City officials say the sighting is “confirmed,” although the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) still holds final authority on verification. If validated, it would mark the first officially documented presence of a mountain lion in Hays County.
In recent weeks, residents have reported finding dead deer near the Willow Creek area of the park. While officials haven’t made a direct connection, they acknowledge the two events “may be related.”
A Rare But Growing Phenomenon
Mountain lions—also called cougars or pumas—once roamed most of Texas. Today, they’re primarily found in West Texas, especially the remote Trans-Pecos region. Confirmed sightings in populated or central areas like Hays County are extremely rare.
However, there’s been a pattern of unexpected appearances. In recent years, mountain lions have been spotted in suburban pockets of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, including Lake Dallas, Little Elm, and Plano. Wildlife experts believe these cats, often young males, are dispersing in search of territory, using creeks, greenbelts, and drainage corridors to navigate.
Safety First
City officials are urging the public to take precautions when visiting natural areas:
- Hike in groups and keep children close.
- Stay on marked trails.
- Keep pets leashed at all times.
- Avoid hiking at dawn or dusk, when predators are most active.
“If you see a mountain lion, do not approach it,” the city warned. “Make yourself appear large, maintain eye contact, and slowly back away—never run.”
Most mountain lions avoid confrontation, but giving them space to escape is key.
What Happens Next
The TPWD is currently reviewing the report. If confirmed, it would become a part of the state’s official wildlife database. Residents are encouraged to report any unusual wildlife sightings to the City of San Marcos Animal Shelter at 512-805-2655.
The city’s official statement and further updates can be found here.
