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Beast of Exmoor

Last reviewed Oct 25, 2026 Next review Nov 9, 2026

Painted illustration: large black cat crouched on heather above a misty Exmoor valley — AI rendition based on witness descriptions, not an actual photo.

Open moorland on Exmoor, where Beast of Exmoor sightings are reported — Open moorland on Exmoor, where Beast of Exmoor sightings are reported · Lewis Clarke · CC BY-SA 2.0 (via Wikimedia Commons) · Image source · License

A large black or tawny cat blamed for sheep kills on Exmoor.

Disputed Verdict: Unproven; escaped exotic pets are the usual explanation offered.

Region: Europe · UK & Europe · United Kingdom
First reports: Sightings from 1970; national attention in 1983 after livestock kills

Key sightings

In 1983 a South Molton farmer's loss of over 100 sheep drew national interest, and the government sent Royal Marine snipers; no large cat has ever been positively identified.

Best evidence

Kills and sightings; no body or confirmed footage.

Sources

Wikipedia: Beast of Exmoor ↗