Mammals of North America: Mountain Lion
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The Puma concolor is known by the common names of mountain lion, cougar, panther, puma, and catamount. Mountain lions are found in North America from the Canadian Yukon south into South America as far as the Patagonia region. They are solitary creatures outside of the mating season and males will mark out their individual territories, which may overlap with the territories of several females. The cats can thrive in a variety of habitats, including most types of forests, grasslands and prairies, or any area that provides dense vegetation. Adults can weigh up to over 250 pounds, but the average is generally about half that size, with males being larger than the females of the species, and northern cats larger than those that range south. The mountain lion's coat can vary greatly in color from one individual to the next with variations from a silvery tan to brownish orange. They are excellent climbers and can leap up to 20 feet at one pounce. The female of the species will give birth to a litter of between one and six kittens, with the average being three to four, every other year under normal conditions. Young cats can be a caramel color with darker spots. They remain under the protection and care of their mother until around one and a half years of age, at which time they will venture out alone. Females reach maturity at approximately two and half years of age. Males are mature at three years old. Mountain lions are carnivores and prey on deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and domesticated cattle when convenient and readily available. But will also feed on smaller creatures, such as rabbits, and even insects, when necessary. They are most active in search of food at dusk and dawn, stalking and ambushing their prey. |
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