Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are native to and live throughout Oregon. These large, solitary cats are a natural part of the state’s ecosystem, occupying habitats from high mountains to coastal forests. As a top predator, they help regulate populations of deer and elk, their primary prey. Though secretive and rarely seen, their population is considered robust, leading to ongoing management by state wildlife authorities.
Identification and Official Status in Oregon
The mountain lion in Oregon is scientifically known as Puma concolor. Adults are characterized by a large, muscular build and a uniform tawny or tan body color, with a whitish underside. They have dark accents on the backs of the ears and the tip of the tail. A distinguishing feature is their long, thick tail, which can measure nearly three feet and accounts for a third to half of their total body length. They are the largest native cat species found in the state.
Mountain lions were historically persecuted, leading to a population low of an estimated 200 individuals by the 1960s. Following this decline, the Oregon State Legislature reclassified the species as a game mammal, affording them protection under state wildlife laws. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) manages the population under the Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS). This status means their numbers are managed through hunting regulations, including a year-round general season in some areas until quotas are met. The public is prohibited from using dogs to hunt them.
Geographic Distribution and Population Estimates
Mountain lions are distributed throughout Oregon, with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) estimating that approximately 75% of the state offers suitable habitat. They are found across western Oregon, with the highest concentrations typically located in forested, rugged mountainous terrain. The highest densities are specifically found in the Blue Mountains in the northeast and in the southwestern Cascade Mountains.
Their range is extensive, covering most available habitat, including areas near human development where urban expansion encroaches on their territory. ODFW’s latest estimates place the statewide mountain lion population at more than 6,000 individuals. This figure represents a healthy population rebound from historic lows. The estimate is derived from a deterministic model that factors in habitat suitability and mortality data.
Preventing Encounters and Safety Guidelines
Coexisting with cougars requires proactive measures, especially where their habitat overlaps with human development. Homeowners can make their property less attractive to these predators, which are most active during dawn and dusk. Removing dense vegetation and brush from around homes and play areas reduces cover where a cougar might hide. Installing motion-activated lighting along walkways and driveways can deter nocturnal visits.
Securing potential food sources is an effective prevention strategy. It is important to feed pets indoors and never leave food or garbage outside, using animal-proof containers. Pets and livestock, which are easy prey, should be kept indoors or sheltered in secure barns or sheds at night. People should also avoid feeding any wildlife, such as deer or raccoons, as attracting prey animals will draw cougars to the area.
If an encounter occurs, never run, as this may trigger a cougar’s predatory chase response. Instead, stay calm, stand your ground, and make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms or holding a jacket over your head. Maintain eye contact with the animal while slowly backing away to give the cougar an escape route. If the animal does not retreat or acts aggressively, you should be loud, shout, clap, or throw objects like rocks or sticks. Fighting back aggressively with any available means is the last resort if the cougar attacks.