Mountain lions, also known as cougars, pumas, or catamounts, are present in Colorado. These powerful predators are native to the region, roaming various landscapes. Despite their widespread presence, they are elusive, and direct sightings are rare.
Mountain Lion Presence and Distribution
Mountain lions are found throughout much of Colorado, especially across the western two-thirds of the state, in foothills, canyons, and mountains. They are abundant in areas with dense vegetation such as piñon pine, juniper, mountain mahogany, ponderosa pine, and oak brush. They thrive in diverse habitats, from high deserts to alpine forests, especially where deer, their primary prey, are plentiful. They can even be found occasionally near urban fringes.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) estimates the state’s population of independent mountain lions at 3,800 to 4,400 animals. This population is stable and healthy. Over half of Colorado is suitable mountain lion habitat, indicating a robust presence. Ongoing research, including GPS collaring and camera monitoring, helps CPW understand population numbers and density.
Identifying Mountain Lions and Their Habits
Mountain lions have distinctive physical characteristics. They are large, muscular cats with tawny to light cinnamon coats, often paler underneath. A defining feature is their long, thick tail, nearly body-length, typically ending with a black tip. Adults can measure over six feet in length and weigh 130 pounds or more, with males generally larger than females.
These animals are primarily crepuscular, active at dawn and dusk, though also active at night or day. Mountain lions are solitary, typically avoiding human contact and preferring to remain hidden. Their hunting strategy involves stealth and ambush, often preying on deer, their staple diet. They are apex predators and play a significant role in maintaining ecosystem balance.
Living Safely in Mountain Lion Country
Coexisting with mountain lions requires specific safety precautions, especially where they are common. To deter mountain lions from residential areas, avoid attracting deer, their main food source, to your yard. Securing pets indoors, particularly at dawn and dusk when lions are most active, or in fully enclosed kennels if left outside, prevents them from becoming prey. Clearing dense vegetation and eliminating potential hiding spots around homes also reduces encounter likelihood.
In the rare event of a mountain lion encounter, remain calm and avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response. Instead, face the animal, stand upright, and appear as large as possible (raise arms, open jacket). Making noise and speaking firmly can convince the lion you are not prey. If the lion behaves aggressively, throw objects and fight back if an attack occurs.
Mountain lion attacks on humans are extremely rare, with fewer than a dozen deaths reported in North America over 100+ years. In Colorado, attacks have been limited, often involving young lions. While rare, such incidents highlight the importance of preparedness and knowing how to respond when recreating or living in mountain lion habitat.