Wildlife experts in Moore County say they now have evidence that a large cat -- possibly a mountain lion -- is loose in the area.

During the weekend, experts observed the tracks of a large cat near a horse farm in Youngs Farm, off Youngs Road in Southern Pines. The tracks were first noticed Wednesday or Thursday.

"It's a large cat of some sort," said Paul Tillman, a wildlife expert with the county. "We don't know what it is."

There were several unconfirmed sightings of a large cat in different parts of Moore County during the summer.

Tillman said that people shouldn't panic. He and his father, Robert, are going to attempt to capture the animal. The tracks measure about five inches long and four inches wide -- roughly the size of a human hand.

The cat is not native to the area, Tillman said, and probably was someone's pet.

To report a sighting or any information on the animal, contact Tillman at 783-6173.

Check ThePilot.com for updates on this developing story.

Matthew Moriarty may be reached at 693-2479 or by e-mail at moriarty@thepilot.com.