Mountain lions, also known as pumas or cougars, are elusive predators that roam across various landscapes. Their secretive nature makes it challenging for wildlife experts to track their exact numbers in any given area. In a state like Montana, where these large cats are an integral part of the ecosystem, public interest often centers on understanding their population status.
Estimating the Population
Determining the precise number of mountain lions in Montana presents a complex task, so wildlife agencies rely on careful estimation rather than exact counts. Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) conducts extensive monitoring, particularly in the western and central parts of the state. Within these monitored regions, the estimated population of independent-aged mountain lions is approximately 2,500.
Other estimates for Montana’s mountain lion population range from 2,400 to 4,000, with some sources citing over 4,000 based on sightings. A 2018 estimate suggested a statewide total between 4,000 and 5,000, with about 1,750 in Northwest Montana alone. These varying figures reflect the challenges of surveying a wide-ranging, solitary species.
Recent discussions by the FWP Commission in June 2023 involved proposals to adjust mountain lion quotas, aiming for population reductions of 30% to 40% in specific areas. Some biologists have expressed concern that current harvest levels might be unsustainable, suggesting a potential decline in certain regions, though overall populations are not considered to be at risk of extirpation.
Methods for Counting Mountain Lions
Wildlife biologists employ various scientific methodologies to estimate mountain lion populations. One common technique involves telemetry, where individual mountain lions are fitted with GPS collars. These collars transmit location data, allowing researchers to track movements, understand habitat use, and estimate population densities.
Genetic analysis plays an important role in population estimation. Biologists collect DNA samples from hair, scat, or tissue to identify individual animals and assess genetic diversity. This method contributes to robust population estimates, especially when combined with capture-recapture models. The Montana FWP’s monitoring strategy, adopted in 2019, uses genetically based field sampling for periodic estimates.
Camera traps, also known as motion-activated cameras, are another non-invasive tool. These cameras are strategically placed along trails or near areas of known mountain lion activity, capturing photos or videos when an animal passes by. This allows scientists to identify individuals, monitor their presence, estimate population sizes, and observe behavior without direct human interference.
Factors Affecting Montana’s Mountain Lion Numbers
Several ecological and human-related factors influence Montana’s mountain lion population dynamics. Prey availability is a key factor; mountain lions depend on deer and elk, so fluctuations in ungulate numbers directly impact lion abundance. Habitat loss and fragmentation, often due to human development, also reduce available territory and restrict movement corridors.
Human-wildlife conflict is another important factor. Mountain lions may interact with humans, livestock, and pets, sometimes leading to management actions. Hunting regulations, with quotas set by the FWP Commission, help regulate populations. Hunting measurably affects mountain lion numbers, and careful management balances population health with public safety. Natural mortality, including disease and inter-species competition, also contributes to population dynamics.
Geographic Presence in Montana
Mountain lions are distributed across Montana, primarily inhabiting the western and central portions of the state. They prefer rugged terrain, such as steep canyons, and areas with thick vegetation and brushy understory, which provide cover for stalking prey. These preferred habitats are often found in mountainous and forested regions.
While widespread, mountain lion density varies across different areas. They tend to live where prey, such as deer, are abundant. Although concentrated in western and central mountain ranges, mountain lions have begun to reoccupy eastern Montana. They are adaptable animals, living in diverse habitats like canyons and forested areas, but avoid areas with high human activity.