Among the most startling sounds in the wilderness at night is the piercing cry often attributed to mountain lions. This nocturnal vocalization can be unsettling, prompting questions about its origin and purpose. Understanding why these elusive predators make such distinctive sounds helps demystify the experience.
The Distinctive Sound of a Mountain Lion
A mountain lion’s scream is a high-pitched sound, often compared to a human scream or a child crying. It can be startling and unnerving when heard in the wild. Unlike larger felids such as lions, mountain lions cannot roar due to the unique structure of their larynx. Instead, they produce a range of sounds, with the scream being one of their most recognizable. Female screams typically last between two to five seconds, beginning at a high pitch before descending in intensity.
Primary Reasons for Nighttime Vocalizations
Mountain lions primarily vocalize for communication. The most common reason for their screams, particularly at night, involves mating rituals. Female mountain lions in estrus emit these screams to signal their availability to potential mates, helping to attract males across vast territories. Breeding can occur at any time of year, as these cats do not have a specific mating season. Males also vocalize during the breeding period, often in connection with territorial disputes over potential mates.
Mountain lions also use vocalizations for territorial communication, announcing their presence and warning off other individuals. These territorial screams serve as a clear message to other mountain lions to stay away from a specific area. Mothers use calls to communicate with their kittens, employing chirps, whistles, and mews to maintain contact or signal danger. Distress or alarm can also prompt vocalizations, with growls and hisses serving as warnings when a mountain lion feels threatened or is defending its young or a kill.
Distinguishing Mountain Lion Calls from Other Wildlife
The distinctive scream of a mountain lion is often confused with sounds made by other nocturnal animals. Red foxes, especially during their mating season, produce high-pitched vocalizations that can sound eerily similar to a human scream. This “vixen call” is a common source of misidentification. Bobcats also make sounds that might be mistaken for a mountain lion, including a yowl that can travel long distances and often ends with two short screams. Coyotes and certain owls can also produce scream-like sounds, adding to the challenge of identification.
What to Do When You Hear a Mountain Lion
Hearing a mountain lion’s vocalizations does not necessarily indicate an immediate threat. If you hear these sounds, remain calm and slowly move towards a safe location. Avoid running, as this can trigger a chase response in any wild predator. Do not crouch down, as this can make you appear more vulnerable.
Should you encounter the animal, making yourself appear larger by raising your hands or opening your jacket can be an effective deterrent. Speaking calmly and firmly while slowly backing away is also recommended. If an attack were to occur, fighting back is the appropriate response.