| Mammals | Terresterial |
Mountain Lion
Puma concolor californica
| Conservation Status: Species of Special Concern
- 3
#2
- Courtesy NPS
Mountain lions are secretive, usually solitary, and very territorial. Also called puma, panther and catamount, they are the most widely distributed cat species in North America and the largest. Able to hunt both day and night, their power, good climbing, and excellent jumping abilities, make them top predators that seek out large mammals such as white-tailed and mule deer, and in their northern ranges, bighorn sheep, elk, and moose.
Facts and Features
- Geographic Distribution
Throughout North and South America. Abundant in British Columbia and Alberta, Canada; south through Wyoming to California, and in east and west Texas. Sparse east of the Mississippi River.
- Amazing Facts
The combination of rear leg muscles and optimum overall size and weight result in mountain lions having extraordinary jumping ability. While running they can take long jumps that exceed 13.7 m (45 ft). They can take vertical leaps up to 4.6 m (15 ft) which enables them to be excellent tree climbers. 1
- At the Aquarium
The mountain lion is illustrated on a mosaic tile mural on The Wave fountain. The fountain, mural, and accompanying graphics illustrate the story of our Los Angeles and San Gabriel Rivers. Although not on exhibit in the Aquarium, this mammal is included in our website animal database to expand on the images and information presented in The Wave fountain exhibit
