(Round Lake, Mn.)– An investigation is underway into the shooting of a cougar in southwest Minnesota.
The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources says the animal was shot Monday morning in Round Lake Township, just north of the Iowa border.
The cougar reportedly weighed 125 pounds and was 74 inches long.
Cougars are a protected animal in Minnesota, and authorities say charges may be filed depending on the outcome of their investigation.
The cougar’s body is in the custody of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. It’s been sent to predator specialists in Grand Rapids, Minnesota for further examination.
