In December 2023, Lowry Hill’s wilder side made headlines when a 132-pound cougar was captured on home security cameras, gracefully moving through our alleys in search of new territory — or perhaps a mate. It was a thrilling and magical moment for the neighborhood, but sadly, the cougar’s journey ended just days later when it was struck by a car on I-394.
Tagged as NE-132 in Nebraska as a young cub, the cougar had traveled hundreds of miles eastward — a remarkable but perilous trek that reflected the dangers wildlife face crossing human landscapes.
Thanks to the determined efforts of Lowry Hill resident Cam Winton — with strong support from Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board Commissioner Elizabeth Shaffer and Superintendent of Planning Michael Schroeder — the community rallied to preserve the memory of our unexpected visitor. Alongside the Park Board and wildlife biologist and taxidermist Meadow Kouffeld, they helped ensure that the story of the Lowry Hill cougar will live on.
After more than a year of careful work, the cougar has been preserved in a natural walking pose, complete with the visible signs of its journey.
The taxidermy was unveiled on April 26 at the Kenwood Community Center, where local children and families gathered in wonder to see the remarkable feline up close. The cougar will soon move to its permanent home at the Carl W.Kroening Nature Center, helping future generations connect with the realities of wildlife survival — and the fleeting magic of living close to the wild.
