On the trail of the big cat (From This Is Local London)

On the trail of the big cat

2:11pm Thursday 4th July 2002

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Wildlife experts have dismissed claims a wild puma could be stalking the countryside in Dartford.

A motorist became the second person in seven months to see what they suspected was a fawn-coloured big cat roaming between Bean and Crayford.

Christine and Raymond Pearson were driving to the dentist on the Bean Road (B255) just south of the A2 when the animal jumped off the bank of the road straight in front of their car and went into the field on the other side of the road.

Christine Pearson, 54, from Fawkham, said: "It had a flat coat which was a very dark fawn colour, like a mountain lion or a puma. It was about 2ft high and 3ft long and looked quite well fed."

But nature conservationists are less than convinced by the sighting.

Derek Gow, Project Manager at the Wild Wood Discovery Park in Herne Bay said: "If there was a puma living in the local country side there would be distinct signs, such as traces of their scent."

Pete Smith, wildlife campaigner for Kent Wild Life Trust said: "Pumas are more likely to run a mile from a person. In their natural habitat they keep themselves to themselves."

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