CLEMSON, SC - Clemson University police are asking students and staff to avoid contact with wild animals that may have wandered onto campus. Police Chief Johnson Link said a contract security officer spotted what he thought looked like a panther Thursday near the Calhoun Mansion (pictured). Police officers later spotted the animal near Earle and Fluor Daniel halls.

Link said the department contacted a wildlife expert who said it’s unlikely the animal is a panther, but that it could be a cougar, a dog or some other animal.

Link said people on campus should avoid the animal in case it has rabies or some other disease.

“For your own safety it’s best to stay away from any wild animal,” Link said. “Call police at 656-2222 if you spot an unusual animal on campus or one that’s not acting normally.”