This fearsome black panther has been terrorising the Hungarian countryside for a month after reportedly escaping from illegal captivity.

The black panther was first spotted near a construction site near the Hungarian city of Kiskunhalas in the county of Bacs-Kiskun on 8th December. Footage shows the stocky beast crossing a field next to the site.

At the time, the local authorities searched for the predator, but were unable to track it down.

Residents then reported spotting the black panther on 22nd December between the village of Balloszog and the small city of Kecskemet in the same county.

Again, the authorities were unable to locate the big cat and over two weeks passed until a farmer reported that eight sheep had been devoured during the night near the city of Kiskunfelegyhaza this week.

The farmer posted images in an open Facebook group and local residents are convinced the rogue panther is responsible, according to local reports.

Residents surmise that the black panther surfaced again due to hunger and the need to feed on flesh.

The police said that the panther was probably kept as an illegal pet.

Budapest Zoo spokesperson Zoltan Hanga said the predator could have difficulty finding food and water, as it was probably raised by humans.

Native to South Asia and Africa, the animal could also be at risk to the Hungarian winter.

Hanga said the black panther should be considered dangerous, but will not view humans as prey. However, the big cat could attack a person if it senses danger.

Meanwhile, domestic pets such as cats and dogs are far more likely to be preyed upon and it is advised that owners keep them indoors as much as possible until the predator is eventually caught.