Cougar Shadow on Superstition Mountains is back

State of play: Residents can view the "Cougar Shadow" across the Superstition Mountains Sunday through Saturday.

What to expect: According to VisitMesa, "A long shadow stretches across the mountain until the outline of a crouching cougar appears, paws forward and body low against the desert cliffs."

How it works: The Cougar Shadow Index is a playful Visit Mesa forecast based on how often the cougar-shaped shadow appears on the Superstition Mountains during seven nights in September.

• More clear sky sightings suggest summer may stick around longer, while clouds and monsoon weather could signal cooler conditions are closer.

Yes, but: Should you miss the cougar sighting this fall, you will have to wait until springtime next year.

If you go: Best views are around 6-6:30pm, about 30 minutes before sunset.

• The shadows last about 20-30 minutes.
• The best viewing point is near Superstition Boulevard and Goldfield Road in Apache Junction.
• Pack a chair, water, a snack and a pair of binoculars.