The presence of mountain lions in Tennessee is a frequent topic of public interest and reported sightings. Many are curious about these large, elusive predators and whether they roam the state’s diverse landscapes. Understanding their historical presence, the official stance of wildlife agencies, and the nature of modern encounters helps clarify this common inquiry.
Historical Presence in Tennessee
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas (Puma concolor), were once native to Tennessee and part of the Eastern Cougar subspecies, playing a role as apex predators. By the early 1900s, however, they were extirpated from the state. This disappearance was primarily due to extensive overhunting and significant habitat loss as human settlements expanded.
Official Stance and Documented Evidence
The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA) maintains there is no established breeding population of mountain lions in Tennessee. The agency has, however, confirmed instances of transient individuals within the state. These confirmations rely on conclusive evidence, such as clear photographic or video evidence from trail cameras, DNA analysis of hair or scat samples, or physical observation by trained professionals.
Since 2015, the TWRA has documented several confirmed sightings. For example, six confirmations occurred in 2015, including a hair sample from a female mountain lion genetically linked to a South Dakota population. Four additional sightings were confirmed in 2016, primarily through trail camera footage. The killing of a mountain lion in Tennessee is illegal unless there is an immediate threat to life or property, as they are a protected species.
Understanding Modern Sightings
Modern mountain lion sightings in Tennessee typically involve transient individuals. These are often young males dispersing from their natal territories in search of new hunting grounds and mates. Such individuals can travel impressive distances, sometimes over a thousand miles, from established populations in western states like South Dakota, Missouri, and Arkansas. Their presence in Tennessee is a result of this natural dispersal behavior.
Many public reports of mountain lions are difficult to verify and frequently turn out to be misidentifications. People often mistake other animals, such as bobcats, large dogs, or even domestic cats, for mountain lions. The TWRA diligently investigates reported sightings, but a lack of physical evidence often prevents confirmation. These transient movements highlight the animals’ adaptability and their capacity to traverse varied landscapes.
Coexisting with Large Predators
Although mountain lion encounters in Tennessee are rare, knowing how to act in the presence of large predators is important. If you encounter a mountain lion, avoid running, as this can trigger a chase instinct. Instead, make yourself appear as large as possible by raising your arms or opening a jacket. Make noise by yelling or speaking firmly, maintain eye contact, and slowly back away.
If a mountain lion attacks, fight back with any available objects, aiming for the face or eyes. Securing pets by keeping them leashed and indoors at night can also help prevent potential conflicts. Mountain lions are naturally shy and generally prefer to avoid human contact.