Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are apex predators found across the Americas. These powerful felines are skilled hunters, and deer form a primary part of their diet.
Deer as a Staple
Deer, including mule and white-tailed species, are a primary part of mountain lion diet. Their size and widespread presence make them an efficient food source. Studies indicate deer constitute 60% to 80% of mountain lion diet, depending on region and prey availability.
Single deer kill provides sustenance for several days. On average, mountain lion consumes one deer per week. This efficiency is important for solitary hunters, minimizing hunt frequency and associated risks. Mountain lions prey on all deer age classes, with fawns particularly susceptible.
Varied Diet
While deer are preferred, mountain lions are opportunistic hunters with adaptable diets. Prey selection broadens when deer populations are less abundant or other large ungulates are available. This includes elk, bighorn sheep, or moose.
Beyond large ungulates, mountain lions hunt smaller mammals. Diet incorporates rabbits, hares, rodents, and porcupines. Occasionally, they prey on birds. In areas overlapping human activity, mountain lions prey on domestic livestock.
Predatory Tactics
Mountain lions employ stealth and ambush as primary hunting techniques. They stalk prey quietly, using dense cover and terrain to their advantage, before launching a sudden attack. They aim for a precise bite to the neck or throat, quickly incapacitating the prey.
These solitary hunters possess strength, enabling them to drag and cache kills in secluded areas. They cover the carcass with debris to protect it from scavengers. Physical adaptations like powerful legs, sharp claws, and keen senses (including excellent day and night vision and depth perception) contribute to their hunting success.
Ecosystem Impact
Mountain lions serve an ecological role as apex predators, influencing deer populations and the broader ecosystem. Their predation regulates deer numbers, contributing to healthier, more balanced herds by removing weaker or diseased individuals. This natural control prevents overgrazing, benefiting plant communities and other species.
The presence of mountain lions influences deer behavior, such as movement patterns and habitat use, as deer avoid high-risk areas. This interaction can lead to a “trophic cascade,” where predation effects extend down the food chain, impacting vegetation and smaller animal communities. This maintains ecosystem balance and resilience.