Cougar

(a.k.a. Puma, Panther, Mountain Lion)

scientific name

Puma concolor

size

Body Length. 59-108"
Tail Length. 21-35"
Weight. males 148-230 lbs. " females 75-132 lbs.

characteristics

Adaptations/Coloration. yellowish to tan above " white with buff below " unspotted
Tail. long with black tip

behavior

uses scent marking or scratches on trees to mark territories " hunts by stealth - tries to get within 30' of prey " remains of kills may be loosely covered with branches, leaves, & litter " may return to kill

reproduction/life span

Mating Season. no fixed mating season
Gestation. 90-96 days
Offspring. 1-6 (usually 2-4) in a maternity den or other protected area " born spotted " raised by female " remain with mother for 1 year (rarely 2)

diet

Carnivore
Wild. primarily large mammals (deer) " may include beaver, porcupine, hare, raccoon, mice, birds, & grasshoppers
Zoo. carnivore diet, bones, vitamins, & enrichment treats

habitat/range

Canada & US west of Great Plains, Mexico, Central & South America " endangered population in Florida

status

CITES App II " 3 subspecies endangered (including Florida panther)

other

females may share overlapping ranges " male ranges overlap several female ranges " usually little overlap between resident males

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