Mystery ‘puma’ near Munich Airport sparks hunt with drones, dogs and a helicopter

A hunter captured footage of an unusual creature near Munich Airport's surrounding area on the evening of October 6, leading to a mystery that has persisted for three days. The Erding district office suggested the possibility of a puma, a rare big cat known for its presence in the Americas. While authorities have yet to confirm the identity of the animal, the Erding police chief stated that there is no evidence of a big cat being involved in the death of a wild animal found nearby.

Searches have been conducted using helicopters, drones, and two German shepherd dogs, yet no definitive conclusion has been reached. Bavaria has strict laws against the private ownership of big cats, and no witnesses have reported a missing puma. Authorities have received numerous tips from the public, but with several being dismissed as possible AI-generated fakes, the search continues into the weekend.

Residents are advised to remain calm, avoid approaching the animal, and to contact the police if they encounter it.