What you would call this wild cat depends on where you live. Whether you call him a cougar, puma, mountain lion or something else, he is still a very powerful, stealthy cat.
Cougars are well known for ambushing prey from high vantage points. A cougar can leap over 16 feet, therefore they have a decided advantage over animals that may appear to be bigger than them. At night, cougars seek their own shelter of rest in caves or dense thickets.
Facts About Cougars
You may well consider the cougar to be a beautiful cat, but he is definitely not an animal that should be underestimated. It is best to admire or observe a cougar from a great distance, and preferably though a long range camera lens like the one I used to capture the images in this article.
- Cougars are classified as "small cats", not big cats (not because of size, but because they do not roar)
- Largest of the small cat species
- Size: Males up to 7½ feet, females are smaller
- Weight: Males up to 220 lbs - Females up to 145 lbs
- Cougars growl, rather fiercely, but they do not roar
- Regions include: North, Central and South America from southern Canada to Cape Horn
- Habitat: Any terrain with enough cover
- Active Day and Night
- Frequently stalk their prey, waiting for the best opportunity or high vantage point
- Carnivore Diet: Deer, elk, hares, raccoons, beavers, sheep, goats or domestic livestock, seals or otters where available
- Has 5 retractable claws on front paws, and 4 retractable claws on back paws
- Most American cats are rarely seen, but we see their territorial "markings" on trees or in the soil
- Cougars live alone except when parenting
- Females are the only cat involved in parenting and cubs stay with their mothers for up to 2 years
- Life Span: 20 years in captivity, average lifespan in the wild, 13 years
There are less than 30 reported human deaths that can be attributed to
cougar attacks in the last century. Since cougars have the most
widespread distribution of any American cat species, it is best to know
the wildlife inhabitants of any area before you hike or bike.
Cougar and Proud of It T-ShirtCheck PriceCougar and Proud of It T-shirtCheck PriceCougar Hoodie Sweatshirt - Puma HoodieCheck Price
Note: The author may receive a commission from purchases made using links found in this article. “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”
