Mountain Lions
The mountain lion, which is often called a cougar, is the largest member of the cat family living in Yellowstone National Park.
- Mountain lions are solitary and shy animals, seldom seen by humans.
- The Yellowstone mountain lions reside throughout the park during the summer.
Overview
The mountain lion is the second largest cat living anywhere in the Americas and is often called other names including cougar, puma, deer tiger, Mexican lion, mountain screamer, brown tiger, catamount, silver lion, mountain demon, Indian devil, purple feather, king cat, sneak cat, and panther.
The current mountain lion population of Yellowstone is thought to be approximately 20-30 animals.
Interesting Facts
A mountain lion is generally a solitary animal and can stake out a home range of up to 100 square miles.
The Yellowstone mountain lions usually stalk mostly elk, deer, and porcupine, but will take what opportunity provides.
Some males can make running long jumps that have exceeded 45 feet with vertical leaps up to 15 feet.
Mountain lions do not like to share their territory and are constantly on the lookout for invaders.
Best Places to View Mountain Lions
The Yellowstone mountain lions reside throughout the park during the summer, but can be found most often in the northern range of the park where prey is available year-round
Respecting Wildlife
Although no documented mountain lion attacks on humans have occurred in Yellowstone, there have been attacks in other areas of the West in recent years. Visitors should obey park rules concerning wildlife, use common sense when camping, and as with any large wild animal, avoid confrontational behavior.
Although they may appear to be an overgrown housecat, mountain lions are fierce predators who demand respect.
