Swiss hikers on panther alert

POLICE in western Switzerland are warning hikers to be on the lookout for a large black cat resembling a panther.

Authorities have received reports of several sightings of the animal in woods near the town of Solothurn over the past week.

Cantonal (state) police say attempts to capture or photograph the animal using special traps have so far failed.

In a statement today, police said the creature appears to be afraid of humans but hikers should "act with caution and avoid approaching the unknown animal unnecessarily."

Police say they are investigating whether there is a link to panther sightings in southern Germany last year.

Authorities say no Swiss zoos or circuses have reported missing panthers, which aren't native to Europe.  (AP)