International Day of the Cougar – June 12th

North America’s Stealthy Predator

Also known as pumas, mountain lions, or panthers, cougars are the second-largest cats in North America, after jaguars. They measure 1.5–2.4 meters (5–8 feet) long. Males can weigh up to 68 kg (150 lbs), while females reach around 45 kg (100 lbs).

Cougars have slender, muscular bodies, round heads, and pointed ears. Their coats range from grayish-tan to reddish, with lighter undersides and a black-tipped tail.

They inhabit diverse environments—from mountains and forests to deserts—across western North America, Florida, and most of South America. Cougars go wherever prey and shelter are available.

Deer are their primary prey, but they’ll also hunt smaller animals, livestock, and even insects. Excellent climbers and jumpers, they ambush prey with stealth and strength. After a kill, they often hide the carcass to feed on it over several days.

Cougars are solitary except during mating, which can occur year-round. Females raise 2–3 cubs on their own. Offspring leave their mother around age two to claim their own territory.

In the wild, cougars live about 10 years; in captivity, they can reach 20. With few natural predators, they sit near the top of the food chain, though they sometimes compete with bears and wolves for food.