Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, roam across several American states, creating a fascinating tapestry of wildlife distribution across the country.
These majestic big cats primarily inhabit western states, though their range may surprise many wildlife enthusiasts.
Their elusive nature makes them mysterious neighbors to millions of Americans who may never realize these powerful predators share their state.
Currently, 15 U.S. states have confirmed mountain lion populations, with the largest numbers found in western states like Colorado, California, and Arizona where estimates range from 2,000-3,000 cats in Arizona alone.
While western states host the majority of mountain lions, some eastern and midwestern states have reported occasional sightings or small recovering populations.
These magnificent cats prefer rocky habitats, dense forests, and areas with adequate prey and minimal human disturbance.
The mountain lion’s presence in various states reflects both conservation successes and ongoing challenges.
States like South Dakota, Oregon, and Washington maintain healthy populations, while places like Arkansas have only about 30 mountain lions, showing how population sizes can vary dramatically across different regions.
Understanding where these cats live helps both conservation efforts and public awareness about sharing landscapes with North America’s largest cats.
Arizona
Arizona has one of the largest mountain lion populations in the United States. The state is home to an estimated 2,000-3,000 mountain lions that thrive in its diverse rocky habitats.
These powerful cats, also known as cougars or pumas, are perfectly adapted to Arizona’s varied landscape. From the Grand Canyon’s rugged rims to the dense vegetation of the Sonoran Desert, mountain lions have established territories throughout the state.
The Arizona Game and Fish Department actively monitors the mountain lion population. They use tracking collars, camera traps, and field surveys to study these elusive predators.
Mountain lions in Arizona primarily feed on deer, but they also hunt elk, javelina, and smaller mammals. Their hunting territory can span up to 100 square miles depending on prey availability.
Key Mountain Lion Habitats in Arizona:
- Mogollon Rim
- Sky Island mountain ranges
- Grand Canyon region
- Sonoran Desert foothills
Despite their abundance, spotting a mountain lion in Arizona remains rare. These solitary cats are mainly nocturnal and extremely cautious around humans.
Arizona manages mountain lions as a game species with regulated hunting seasons. This helps maintain healthy population levels and reduces potential conflicts with humans and livestock.
Mountain lions in Arizona are considered vital to the ecosystem as apex predators that help control deer populations and maintain the balance of wildlife communities.
California
California has one of the largest mountain lion populations in the United States. These magnificent cats, also known as cougars or pumas, thrive in the diverse landscapes across the state.
Experts estimate that California hosts between 4,000 to 6,000 mountain lions. These numbers have remained relatively stable in recent years despite increasing human development.
Mountain lions in California are distributed across three main populations:
- Northern California – Inhabiting forested mountains and wilderness areas
- Central California – Found in coastal ranges and Sierra Nevada foothills
- Southern California – Living in fragmented habitats near urban areas
The mountain lion populations in California face unique challenges. In Southern California, habitat fragmentation due to highways and urban development has isolated some groups, creating genetic concerns.
California passed Proposition 117 in 1990, making it illegal to hunt mountain lions. This legislation classified them as a “specially protected mammal” rather than a game species.
Despite legal protections, mountain lions continue to face threats. Urban expansion, roadway deaths, and conflicts with humans challenge their survival in some regions.
Conservation efforts focus on creating wildlife corridors to connect isolated populations. These pathways allow mountain lions to travel safely between habitat areas and maintain genetic diversity.
Wildlife officials actively monitor California’s mountain lions using tracking collars and camera traps. This research helps inform management decisions and protect these important predators.
Colorado
Colorado has the highest known population of mountain lions in the United States. Approximately 7,000 of these majestic cats roam the state’s diverse terrain.
The Rocky Mountains provide an ideal habitat for these stealthy predators. Mountain lions thrive in Colorado’s rugged landscape where they can find plenty of cover and hunting opportunities.
These cats are masters of stealth, expertly blending with their surroundings in the Colorado wilderness. Their camouflage helps them hunt effectively and avoid human detection.
Colorado’s mountain lions primarily feed on deer and smaller mammals. The state’s healthy prey population supports the large number of mountain lions living there.
Diet of Colorado Mountain Lions:
- Deer (primary food source)
- Elk (especially calves)
- Small mammals (rabbits, raccoons)
- Occasionally livestock
The state’s conservation efforts have helped maintain a stable mountain lion population. Colorado Parks and Wildlife manages these cats through regulated hunting and protection of critical habitats.
Rural residents occasionally have surprising encounters with these big cats. While mountain lions generally avoid humans, expanded development has increased the frequency of sightings in some areas.
Florida
Florida is home to a unique subspecies of mountain lion known as the Florida panther. This endangered big cat is one of the most threatened feline populations in North America.
Current estimates place the Florida panther population between 100-300 individuals. These cats are protected under federal and state endangered species laws due to their critically low numbers.
The Florida panther once roamed throughout the southeastern United States. Today, their range is limited primarily to southwest Florida in areas like Big Cypress National Preserve and Everglades National Park.
Unlike mountain lions in western states, Florida panthers face unique challenges:
- Habitat loss due to development
- Vehicle collisions (a leading cause of death)
- Limited genetic diversity
- Human-wildlife conflict
Conservation efforts have helped the population grow from fewer than 30 cats in the 1970s to today’s numbers. Wildlife crossings built under highways have reduced road mortality significantly.
Florida panthers are tan in color with lighter undersides and typically weigh between 70-160 pounds. Males are considerably larger than females, and cubs have spotted coats that fade as they mature.
The Mountain Lion Foundation works actively in Florida to protect these rare cats. Their efforts include habitat preservation and public education campaigns to reduce conflicts with humans.
Florida’s panthers require large territories, with males needing up to 200 square miles to thrive. This makes habitat conservation particularly challenging in a rapidly developing state.
Idaho
Idaho has a healthy population of mountain lions throughout the state. These majestic cats, also known as cougars or pumas, thrive in Idaho’s diverse terrain.
The mountain lion population in Idaho is concentrated in the mountainous and forested regions. These areas provide ideal habitat for these solitary predators.
Idaho’s Department of Fish and Game manages the mountain lion population through regulated hunting seasons. This helps maintain balance in the ecosystem.
Mountain lions in Idaho typically prey on:
- Deer
- Elk
- Small mammals
- Occasional livestock
The cats prefer remote areas away from human development. However, increasing human expansion into mountain lion territory has led to more encounters.
Idaho residents in mountain lion country are advised to take precautions:
- Keep pets indoors at night
- Secure livestock in protected enclosures
- Remove attractants like pet food from outdoor areas
Mountain lion sightings should be reported to local wildlife authorities. This helps track population movements and potential problem areas.
Unlike some states where mountain lions are rare, Idaho maintains a stable population of these apex predators. They play an important role in controlling deer and elk populations throughout the state.
Conservation efforts focus on maintaining suitable habitat and corridors for mountain lions to travel between different regions of Idaho.
Montana
Montana ranks among states with the largest mountain lion populations in America. This vast western state provides ideal habitat for these powerful cats.
The mountain lion population in Montana is estimated at about 5,300 individuals. This makes it one of the most significant cougar habitats in the United States.
Montana’s varied landscape contributes to this thriving population. The state features diverse environments including:
- Dense forests
- Rocky mountains
- Open plains
- River valleys
These different habitats provide plenty of hunting grounds for mountain lions. They can find deer and other prey across Montana’s expansive wilderness areas.
The state’s wildlife management policies focus on maintaining sustainable cougar numbers. Montana has established hunting seasons and regulations to help control population growth while ensuring the species remains healthy.
Human encounters with mountain lions in Montana remain relatively rare. Wildlife officials recommend staying alert in cougar territory and knowing how to respond if you encounter one of these cats.
Montana’s vast expanses of undeveloped land allow mountain lions to maintain their natural behaviors with minimal human conflict. Conservation efforts continue to monitor these populations to ensure they remain stable for future generations.
Nebraska
Mountain lions have made a comeback in Nebraska in recent years. The state is one of the more recently recolonized areas for these big cats, with populations still working to establish themselves.
Nebraska currently has three small breeding populations of mountain lions. These are located in the Pine Ridge ecosystem, the Niobrara Valley, and the Wildcat Hills.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has been actively managing these populations. They first approved mountain lion hunting in the Pine Ridge area starting in 2014. More recently, they added a Niobrara Unit in 2024.
The Wildcat Hills will see its first mountain lion hunting season in 2025. Hunters are randomly selected for these limited opportunities through a permit system.
It’s important to note that mountain lions in Nebraska don’t exist in isolation. They are part of the larger population spanning Western states and move freely between Nebraska and neighboring states like South Dakota and Wyoming.
The mountain lion’s return to Nebraska represents an interesting case study in wildlife recolonization. These cats are slowly rebuilding their presence in the state after being absent for many decades.
Conservation efforts continue to focus on maintaining sustainable populations while managing potential conflicts with humans and livestock.
Nevada
Mountain lions have a strong presence in Nevada. The state’s mountainous terrain provides ideal habitat for these big cats. They play a key role in Nevada’s ecosystem.
In Nevada, mountain lions are considered the top predators in their environment. Unlike many other western states, Nevada doesn’t have grizzly bears competing at the top of the food chain. This allows mountain lions to develop a well-established population.
The mountain lion population in Nevada serves an important purpose. They help control deer and rodent populations throughout the state’s mountainous regions. This natural balance keeps ecosystems healthy.
Nevada’s mountain lions primarily inhabit the following areas:
- Sierra Nevada mountain range
- Ruby Mountains
- Spring Mountains
- Other remote, rocky terrain
The Nevada Department of Wildlife monitors mountain lion populations, though exact numbers are difficult to determine due to the cats’ elusive nature. Researchers use tracking methods including:
- Radio collars
- Trail cameras
- Paw print identification
- Reported sightings
Human hunting of mountain lions is permitted in Nevada with proper licensing. The state manages this through a quota system to ensure sustainable population levels.
For hikers and outdoor enthusiasts in Nevada, awareness of mountain lion presence is important. While attacks are extremely rare, knowing proper safety measures is recommended when exploring mountain lion territory.
New Mexico
New Mexico is home to a significant mountain lion population with an estimated 3,500 cougars residing throughout the state. This makes it one of the states with the highest mountain lion numbers in the United States.
The terrain of New Mexico provides ideal habitat for mountain lions with its diverse landscape of mountains, canyons, and desert regions. These big cats thrive in the state’s varied topography, which offers plenty of hunting grounds and cover.
Mountain lions in New Mexico primarily feed on deer and other medium-sized mammals. They play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling prey populations across the state.
The New Mexico Department of Game and Fish actively manages the mountain lion population through regulated hunting. The state issues permits to help maintain sustainable numbers while reducing potential conflicts with humans and livestock.
Sightings of mountain lions in New Mexico aren’t uncommon, particularly in less developed areas. Residents living near wilderness areas are often educated about mountain lion safety protocols.
Conservation efforts in New Mexico focus on preserving natural habitats and wildlife corridors that allow these large cats to maintain their traditional range and behaviors. These efforts help ensure that mountain lion populations remain stable for future generations.
North Dakota
North Dakota is one of the states that has been recently recolonized by mountain lions. These big cats have made a comeback in the state after being nearly wiped out in previous decades.
The state began an experimental hunting season for mountain lions in 2005. Since then, North Dakota has increased the hunting quota several times as the population has grown.
Mountain lion hunting in North Dakota is divided into three main regions:
- Zone 1: A portion of southwest North Dakota
- Zone 2: The rest of the state
- Fort Berthold Indian Reservation: Has its own regulations
The exact population of mountain lions in North Dakota is not well documented. Wildlife officials maintain careful monitoring of the species since their return to the state.
Mountain lions in North Dakota primarily inhabit the western portions of the state where terrain provides better habitat. The Badlands region offers ideal conditions with rugged landscapes and abundant prey.
Unlike western states with large mountain lion populations, encounters with these cats are relatively rare in North Dakota. Deaths from mountain lion attacks are extremely uncommon, with only 29 reported cases in all of North America since 1868.
Conservation efforts continue to balance maintaining a healthy mountain lion population while addressing concerns from ranchers and rural residents.
Oregon
Oregon has one of the highest mountain lion populations in the United States, with over 6,000 of these majestic cats living throughout the state. These impressive numbers show how well mountain lions have adapted to Oregon’s varied landscapes.
The state’s unique geography creates perfect mountain lion habitat. Oregon offers a mix of dense forests, coastal mountain ranges, and deep valleys where these big cats can hunt and roam freely.
Mountain lions in Oregon primarily prey on deer and elk, which are abundant throughout the state. They require large territories and can travel many miles each day searching for food and mates.
Oregon’s Department of Fish and Wildlife manages the mountain lion population through regulated hunting. This helps maintain ecological balance while reducing potential conflicts with humans and livestock.
Key facts about Oregon’s mountain lion population:
- Population size: Approximately 6,000+ mountain lions
- Habitat: Forests, mountains, valleys, and some semi-rural areas
- Legal status: Classified as game animals with regulated hunting seasons
- Distribution: Found throughout most of the state, particularly in less populated regions
Conservation efforts in Oregon focus on maintaining healthy mountain lion numbers while educating the public about coexisting with these powerful predators. The Mountain Lion Foundation works in Oregon to promote awareness and protection of these animals.
Human encounters with mountain lions remain relatively rare in Oregon despite their significant numbers. Wildlife officials recommend making noise while hiking and keeping children and pets close when in mountain lion territory.
South Dakota
Mountain lions have a complicated history in South Dakota. They once roamed freely throughout the state and were especially common in the Black Hills region.
In the early 1900s, the population declined sharply due to unregulated hunting. The state even placed bounties on mountain lions until 1966, encouraging their elimination.
By 1978, the situation had become so dire that South Dakota officially listed mountain lions as a state threatened species. This designation offered them protection to rebuild their numbers.
Today, mountain lions have made a comeback in South Dakota, primarily in the western portion of the state. The Black Hills region remains their primary habitat, providing the rocky terrain and forest cover they prefer.
The South Dakota Game, Fish, and Parks Department carefully monitors the mountain lion population. They use tracking collars, trail cameras, and other scientific methods to study these elusive cats.
Hunting of mountain lions is now regulated in South Dakota through a limited season with specific quotas. These regulations help maintain a balanced population while allowing for controlled hunting opportunities.
Human encounters with mountain lions in South Dakota are rare. These naturally shy animals typically avoid people, preferring to remain hidden in remote areas.
Texas
Texas has the largest and most diverse population of mountain lions in the United States. The exact number is hard to determine because large packs are difficult to find.
Mountain lions in Texas roam throughout the western and southern portions of the state. They prefer remote, rugged terrain where they can hunt without human interference.
The Trans-Pecos region of west Texas has the highest concentration of these big cats. This area’s rough landscape provides ideal habitat for mountain lions to thrive.
Texas Mountain Lion Facts:
- Also known as: cougars, pumas, or panthers
- Average weight: 80-150 pounds
- Diet: Primarily deer, but also smaller mammals
- Territory size: Up to 100 square miles per adult male
Texas does not classify mountain lions as game animals or endangered species. This means they can be hunted year-round without a special permit or bag limit.
The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department monitors mountain lion populations but has limited protection measures in place. Sightings have increased in recent years, suggesting a stable or growing population.
Encounters between humans and mountain lions remain rare in Texas. Most mountain lions actively avoid human contact and prefer to remain hidden in their natural habitat.
Utah
Utah has a healthy mountain lion population across much of the state. The cats thrive in the state’s diverse landscape of mountains, canyons, and forests.
Wildlife experts estimate that Utah is home to approximately 2,500-4,000 mountain lions. These numbers have remained relatively stable in recent years due to careful management.
Mountain lions in Utah are most commonly found in the central and southern regions. Areas like the Wasatch Mountains, Uinta Mountains, and the regions near Zion National Park provide ideal habitat for these elusive predators.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources actively monitors the state’s mountain lion population. They use tracking collars, wildlife cameras, and field surveys to gather important data.
Utah classifies mountain lions as protected wildlife. Hunting is permitted but strictly regulated through a limited permit system to ensure sustainable population levels.
Human-mountain lion encounters in Utah are rare. Most cats avoid people and prefer remote areas with abundant deer, their primary prey.
Climate change and habitat fragmentation present challenges for Utah’s mountain lion conservation efforts. Protecting wildlife corridors is essential for maintaining genetic diversity among populations.
Utah’s mountain lions play an important ecological role by controlling deer populations and maintaining balance in the ecosystem. Their presence indicates healthy natural environments throughout the state.
Washington
Washington state is home to a significant mountain lion population, with approximately 3,600 of these majestic big cats roaming its diverse landscapes.
The mountain lions in Washington thrive across various habitats. They can be found in the dense forests of the Olympic Peninsula as well as the more open terrain of Eastern Washington.
Washington’s cougar population has remained relatively stable in recent years. Wildlife management programs monitor these cats to maintain ecological balance while reducing human-wildlife conflicts.
Mountain lions in Washington typically weigh between 80-180 pounds. Males are significantly larger than females, with some exceptional males reaching weights over 200 pounds.
These solitary predators require large territories. A single male mountain lion may claim a territory of up to 150 square miles in Washington’s wilderness.
Habitat Preferences in Washington:
- Dense coniferous forests
- Rocky outcroppings
- River corridors
- Foothill regions
- Mountain wilderness areas
Washington state law classifies mountain lions as game animals. Regulated hunting is permitted during specific seasons with proper licensing, helping to manage population levels.
Human encounters with mountain lions in Washington are rare. However, increased development in rural areas has led to occasional sightings near populated regions, especially in areas where residential zones meet wilderness.
Conservation efforts focus on preserving natural corridors that allow mountain lions to move between habitats while minimizing contact with humans.
Wyoming
Wyoming is home to a stable mountain lion population that inhabits the entire state. These elusive big cats are rarely seen by humans despite their widespread presence.
The Wyoming Game and Fish Department actively monitors mountain lion populations throughout the state. They use various tracking methods including trail cameras, DNA sampling, and radio collars to study these secretive predators.
Mountain lions in Wyoming primarily inhabit the mountainous and forested regions. They prefer areas with good cover and abundant prey such as deer and elk.
Wyoming Mountain Lion Facts:
- Found statewide in suitable habitat
- Most common in western and central mountain ranges
- Extremely elusive and rarely spotted by humans
- Regulated hunting is permitted with proper licenses
Wyoming manages its mountain lion population through controlled hunting seasons. This helps maintain ecological balance while reducing potential conflicts with humans and livestock.
The state classifies mountain lions as trophy game animals. This designation provides them with legal protections while allowing for regulated hunting.
Conservation efforts in Wyoming focus on maintaining healthy mountain lion populations while addressing public safety concerns. Officials encourage residents to report sightings to help with ongoing research and management.
