Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are animals that often spark public curiosity, especially regarding their presence in Arkansas. While anecdotal sightings are common, understanding the factual status of these elusive predators requires official reports and scientific evidence. This article examines their current status, historical background, and how to identify them safely.
Current Status in Arkansas
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission (AGFC) confirms periodic sightings of individual mountain lions but maintains there is no established breeding population within the state. Since 2010, there have been 23 confirmed sightings across Arkansas, with 14 of these occurring between 2010 and 2018.
These sightings typically involve transient male mountain lions. Young males often travel significant distances in search of new territories. For instance, a male mountain lion killed in Bradley County in 2014 was genetically linked to a breeding population in Wyoming and South Dakota, illustrating their dispersal capabilities. Some sightings may involve escaped or released captive animals, though bringing mountain lions into Arkansas is illegal. Misidentification, often involving bobcats, large domestic cats, or dogs, can lead to discrepancies between public perception and official reports. The AGFC investigates photographic and physical evidence to verify such reports.
Historical Presence and Range
Mountain lions were once native to Arkansas and were common throughout the state. Their historical presence dates back well into the 1800s, with their range covering nearly all of Arkansas. By the early 1900s, these large predators were largely extirpated from the state.
Their decline and disappearance were primarily due to overexploitation, including hunting, and significant habitat loss. Bounties were historically offered for killing these animals, contributing to their eradication. While some historical accounts suggest they might not have been entirely absent, formal surveys conducted by the AGFC from 1988-1991 found no evidence of wild, reproducing populations.
Identification and Encounter Safety
Distinguishing a mountain lion from other animals, such as a bobcat, involves observing several key characteristics. Mountain lions are considerably larger, typically weighing between 80 to 160 pounds, whereas bobcats range from 10 to 30 pounds. A mountain lion’s most distinct feature is its long, heavy tail, which can be up to three feet long and nearly two-thirds the length of its head and body, often reaching the ground. In contrast, bobcats have a noticeably short, “bobbed” tail, usually around five inches or less. Mountain lions generally have a uniform tan or cinnamon-gold coat, while bobcats often exhibit spots and stripes. Their footprints also differ, with mountain lion tracks being much larger, comparable to the size of a human hand.
If you encounter a mountain lion, several safety measures can help reduce risk:
- Avoid approaching the animal.
- Do not run, as this can trigger the lion’s natural chase instinct.
- Stand your ground, face the animal, and maintain eye contact.
- To appear larger and more intimidating, raise your arms, open your jacket, and speak firmly in a loud voice.
- If small children are present, pick them up without bending over.
- Avoid crouching or bending down, as this posture can make you resemble a four-legged prey animal.
- Slowly back away while continuously facing the animal.
- Should an attack occur, fight back aggressively using any available objects like rocks or sticks.
Any verifiable sightings of mountain lions should be reported to the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission.