Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are large, elusive felines that historically roamed across much of the Americas. The question of their presence in Maryland frequently arises, often fueled by public interest and occasional, unconfirmed sightings.
Current Mountain Lion Status in Maryland
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) maintains there is no evidence of an established, breeding population of mountain lions in the state, despite occasional reports of sightings. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officially declared the Eastern cougar extinct in 2018, removing it from the endangered species list.
It is possible for transient individuals, typically young males, to disperse over large distances from established populations in the western United States. Such instances are extremely rare and do not indicate a resident presence or breeding activity within Maryland. Any cougars confirmed in the East have been identified through genetic testing as western individuals, sometimes originating from as far as South Dakota.
Historical Presence in Maryland
Mountain lions, also known as Eastern panthers, were once native to Maryland and the eastern United States. They were prevalent until the mid-to-late 1800s.
The extirpation, or local extinction, of mountain lions from Maryland and most of the East occurred primarily due to habitat loss and hunting pressure. As human settlements expanded and deer populations, a primary food source for cougars, declined due to market hunting, their survival diminished. The last confirmed wild Eastern cougar in the region was likely around 1871, with the subspecies broadly considered extinct by the 1930s.
Common Misidentifications and Explanations
Many reported mountain lion sightings in Maryland often turn out to be misidentifications of other animals. Bobcats are frequently mistaken for cougars, but they are considerably smaller, typically weighing 12 to 25 pounds, with a short, “bobbed” tail and pointy ears with tufts. Cougars, in contrast, are much larger, weighing between 70 and 150 pounds, with long tails that can be 2.5 to 3.5 feet in length, and rounded ears without tufts.
Coyotes and large domestic dogs are also commonly confused with mountain lions. Coyotes have a different build and behavior, while large dogs, especially those with long, smooth tails, can appear similar from a distance or in poor lighting. Even large feral house cats, particularly orange ones, have been mistaken for pumas.
Reporting Suspected Sightings
For individuals who believe they have seen a mountain lion in Maryland, reporting the sighting to the appropriate authorities is recommended. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the state agency responsible for wildlife management. They encourage detailed information to help their specialists investigate.
To report a sighting, individuals can contact the Maryland DNR’s general wildlife line or their Wildlife and Heritage Service. Providing specific details such as the date, time, precise location, a detailed description of the animal, and any available photos or videos can be helpful for verification. Observe the animal from a safe distance and do not approach it.