Cougar

The cougar is a large cat native to the Americas. Its range spans from the Canadian Yukon to the southern Andes in South America and is the most widespread of any large wild terrestrial mammal in the Western Hemisphere. It is an adaptable, generalist species, occurring in most American habitat types. The size to strength ratio of a Mountain Lion is incredible. It is able to take down animals many times its own size. A 400 pound animal is no match against a Mountain Lion. Generally speaking, mountain lions can be found wherever deer are present. Their usual habitat is steep, rocky canyons or mountainous terrain. Mountain lions can be found in deserts as well as coastal forests, and from sea level to 10,000-foot elevations. Adult cougars typically prey on deer, elk, moose, mountain goats, and wild sheep, with deer being the preferred and most common prey. Other prey species, especially for younger cougars, include raccoons, coyotes, rabbits, hares, small rodents, and occasionally pets and livestock (e.g. goats, sheep, and chickens).

Height: 2 – 3 ft. (Adult, At Shoulder)

Mass: 120 – 220 lbs (Male, Adult), 64 – 140 lbs (Female, Adult)

Trophic level: Carnivorous

Speed: 40 – 50 mph (Running)

Gestation period: 91 days

Conservation status: Least Concern (Population decreasing)