Mountain lions, also known as cougars, pumas, or panthers, are large, elusive wild cats found throughout the Americas. These adaptable predators inhabit a wide range of environments, including mountains, forests, deserts, and wetlands. Although naturally shy and solitary, mountain lions can sometimes venture into human-populated areas. Understanding what draws them closer to human activity is important for coexistence and safety.
Primary Food Sources
Mountain lions are obligate carnivores, meaning their diet consists entirely of meat. Their primary food source across North America is deer, including mule and white-tailed deer. A single adult deer can provide sustenance for a mountain lion for approximately a week, though females with cubs may hunt more frequently. The abundance of deer in an area is a strong indicator of suitable mountain lion habitat.
Beyond deer, mountain lions are opportunistic hunters and will prey on other large mammals such as elk, moose, and bighorn sheep. They also consume smaller wild animals like raccoons, porcupines, rabbits, and various rodents. The presence of these natural prey animals in or near human settlements can attract mountain lions.
Ideal Habitat Features
Mountain lions prefer habitats that offer ample cover and resources. Dense vegetation, such as thick brush, forests, or tall grasses, provides concealment for stalking prey and resting. This cover allows them to ambush unsuspecting animals.
Rugged terrain, including rocky outcrops, cliffs, and caves, serves as ideal den sites, vantage points for surveying their territory, and escape routes. These features offer security and strategic advantages for hunting. Access to water sources is also essential for them and their prey.
Human-Proximate Attractors
Factors related to human presence can also draw mountain lions into developed areas. Domestic animals are particularly vulnerable, as pets like dogs and cats are perceived as easy prey due to their size and often unsecured nature. Livestock, including chickens, goats, and sheep, are also susceptible to predation, especially if kept in unprotected enclosures. These animals present an accessible food source when natural prey may be less abundant.
While mountain lions are not primarily scavengers like bears, unsecured pet food left outdoors or easily accessible garbage can indirectly attract them. These items draw smaller prey animals such as raccoons and rodents, which in turn can attract mountain lions. Irrigated lawns and gardens in residential areas can also attract deer, further increasing the likelihood of mountain lion presence.
Reducing Mountain Lion Presence
To minimize mountain lion presence, securing pets is important. Keep them indoors, especially during dusk and dawn when mountain lions are most active, or ensure they are in secure, roofed enclosures. For livestock, robust, predator-proof enclosures with strong fencing and roofs are recommended, as mountain lions can jump up to 15 feet vertically. Employing guard animals, like specific breeds of dogs, can also deter predators.
Managing landscaping around homes reduces hiding spots for mountain lions. Clearing dense brush and low-hanging tree limbs near residences makes it more difficult for these cats to approach undetected. Make yards less attractive to natural prey animals like deer by using deer-resistant plants or fencing.
Proper disposal of garbage in secure, lidded containers and avoiding outdoor pet food storage also prevents attracting smaller animals. Installing motion-sensor lights can help deter mountain lions by startling them. Avoid feeding any wildlife, as this can inadvertently attract predators.