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Cougar Spotted in Howard Lake Neighborhood, Likely Passing Through

8/10/2026

26 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Security cameras captured a cougar walking through a neighborhood near Howard Lake, Minnesota, 40 miles west of Minneapolis, in late July.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources said the animal is likely passing through and will be left alone unless it threatens people or pets.
Wildlife experts noted that cougar sightings are rare but not unheard of, citing a 2025 sighting in nearby Dassel.

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Story summary

Security cameras captured a cougar walking through a neighborhood near Howard Lake, Minnesota, 40 miles west of Minneapolis, in late July.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources said the animal is likely passing through and will be left alone unless it threatens people or pets.
Wildlife experts noted that cougar sightings are rare but not unheard of, citing a 2025 sighting in nearby Dassel.