In Dartmouth, Devon, a couple celebrating a birthday captured video footage of a large black cat that they believe resembles a panther. The sighting occurred while they were at a hotel, just 200 meters from the animal, which moved stealthily through the countryside before vanishing from view. This incident has reignited interest in the so-called Beast of Bodmin, with both tourists and locals recalling similar reports over the past few decades.

The couple's video, lasting 36 seconds, showcases the animal's presence in a field, heightening the mystery around these alleged big cat sightings in the UK. Local big cat expert Rick Minter has commented on the footage, indicating that it appears credible enough to warrant further investigation into what could be a panther or similar large feline. Such sightings often draw both fascination and skepticism, as many people wonder about the possibility of exotic wildlife living in the British countryside away from their natural habitats.

Historically, Devon and particularly the area around Bodmin Moor has had a series of reported sightings of big cats, leading to speculation about their origins. These incidents have not only intrigued wildlife enthusiasts but have also stirred debates regarding animal conservation and the management of potential non-native species in the UK. The latest sighting adds to the rich tapestry of folklore surrounding these elusive beasts and encourages further scrutiny into the coexistence of humans and wildlife in rural Britain.