Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

An alert was released Friday warning residents in Port Arthur that a cougar had been spotted in a residential area.

Officials with the city’s animal control department are investigating the alleged sighting and traps have been set to capture the animal. The hope is that once the animal is contained it will be identified.

The alert stated a cougar had been spotted for several nights in the 3200 to 3600 block of Thomas Boulevard to Gulfway Drive.

Citizens are asked not to approach if they see the animal. Those who do see the animal are asked to call Texas Parks and Wildlife at 254-784-5647 or 512-389-4505.