Mountain Lion

Puma concolor

The mountain lion, scientifically known as *Puma concolor*, is a large and powerful feline native to the Americas, recognized for its remarkable adaptability across diverse habitats. This solitary and elusive predator sports a slender, agile body that can weigh between 64 to 220 pounds, with males being significantly larger than females. Exhibiting a tawny or grayish coat, mountain lions are adept at blending into their surroundings, aiding in their stealthy hunting skills. These big cats possess a long tail, often tipped with black, that aids in balance and agility, particularly when navigating rugged terrains such as mountains, forests, and deserts. Their range extends from the Canadian Yukon through the United States, parts of Central America, and down to the southern Andes. Mountain lions are ambush predators that primarily prey on deer but are also known to hunt smaller mammals when available. With exceptional eyesight and powerful limbs, they are capable of making significant leaps, both vertically and horizontally. Despite facing habitat fragmentation and human encroachment challenges, mountain lions continue to be a symbol of wild, untamed wilderness, playing a critical role in maintaining the ecological balance within their range.