Also known as pumas, cougars, or panthers, mountain lions are large ranges from various parts of the Americas, Canada, and South America. These majestic animals are known for their agility, strength, and stealth, and have long been an iconic symbol of the wild landscapes they inhabit.
Mountain lions are solitary creatures that tend to avoid human contact, but their range can overlap with human settlements, particularly in areas where their natural habitat has been encroached upon. Their range can vary greatly depending on the availability of food, water, and shelter, as well as the presence of other predators and human activity.
The range of mountain lions can be divided into three main regions: the western United States and Canada, the eastern United States, and South America. In the western region, mountain lions can be found from the Pacific Ocean to the Rocky Mountains, and from southern Canada to northern Mexico. This region includes states such as California, Arizona, Colorado, and Wyoming, where mountain lions are commonly found in national parks, forests, and other protected areas. In this region, mountain lions can have home ranges of up to 300 square miles, but may also live in smaller areas if food and shelter are abundant.
In the eastern United States, mountain lions were once widespread but were hunted to extinction in the late 1800s in these areas. However, in recent years there have been reports of sightings and evidence of mountain lion activity in states such as Missouri, Kentucky, and Tennessee. It is believed that these mountain lions are individuals that have migrated from western populations or have been released from captivity. The range of mountain lions in the eastern United States is still largely unknown, and there is an ongoing debate among scientists, wildlife experts, and the public about the potential risks and benefits of reintroducing these animals to the region.
In South America, mountain lions can be found in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to open grasslands. They are particularly common in countries such as Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, where they are sometimes hunted for sport or killed by farmers to protect livestock. The range of mountain lions in South America is also affected by habitat loss and fragmentation, as well as conflict with humans.
Overall, the range of mountain lions is complex and dynamic and is shaped by a range of factors. These include habitat availability, prey density, and human activity. While these animals can be fearsome predators, they are also an important part of many ecosystems. They help to control populations of deer, elk, and other large herbivores. As human populations continue to grow and encroach upon natural habitats, it is important to find ways to coexist with these animals and protect their ranges for generations to come.
Is the Mountain Lion Range in my State?
This list is alphabetical and includes all states that are included and not included in the mountain lion range.
Alabama
No, there are no wild mountain lions (Puma) in Alabama. Mountain lions are not native to the southeastern United States, including Alabama, and there is no evidence of a breeding population in the state.
However, there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in Alabama, often by hunters or other outdoor enthusiasts. These sightings are usually of individual animals that have wandered into the state from other regions, such as the western United States. In some cases, these animals may have escaped from captivity or been released into the wild.
Alaska
No, there are no wild mountain lions (Puma) in Alaska. Mountain lions are not native to Alaska, and their range does not extend to this northernmost state of the United States.
Alaska’s largest wild cat species is the Canada lynx, which is well-adapted to the state’s cold and snowy environments. Other large predators found in Alaska include grizzly bears, black bears, wolves, and wolverines. These animals have adapted to the unique environmental conditions of Alaska and play important roles in the state’s ecosystems.
Arizona
Yes, mountain lions (Puma) are found in Arizona. In fact, Arizona is home to one of the largest populations of mountain lions in the United States. The state’s varied landscapes, including deserts, mountains, and forests, provide ample habitat for these big cats.
Mountain lions in Arizona are typically found in mountainous areas, such as the Mogollon Rim, the Santa Catalina Mountains, and the Huachuca Mountains. They are also found in other regions of the state, including the Sonoran Desert, where they rely on riparian areas and other sources of water.
Arkansas
Mountain lions (Puma) are not native to Arkansas, but there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in the state. However, there is no evidence of a breeding population of mountain lions in Arkansas, and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission consider the species to be “extirpated” or locally extinct in the state.
Most reported sightings of mountain lions in Arkansas are likely to be of individual animals that have wandered into the state from other regions, such as the western United States. In some cases, these animals may have escaped from captivity or been released into the wild. However, without evidence of a breeding population, it is unlikely that mountain lions will establish a permanent presence in the state.
California
Yes, mountain lions (Puma) are found in California. In fact, California has one of the largest populations of mountain lions in the United States, with an estimated 4,000 to 6,000 individuals spread throughout the state.
Mountain lions in California are found in a wide range of habitats, including coastal mountains, deserts, and forests. They are known to roam over large distances and often require large areas of habitat to support their populations.
Colorado
Yes, mountain lions (Puma) are found in Colorado. In fact, Colorado is one of the states with the largest populations of mountain lions in the United States, with an estimated 4,500 individuals living in the state.
Mountain lions in Colorado are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and deserts. They are typically solitary animals, but their range can overlap with humans.
Connecticut
Historically, mountain lions (Puma ) were native to Connecticut. However, there have been no confirmed sightings of mountain lions in the state since the early 1900s, and the species is considered to be extirpated or locally extinct in Connecticut.
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in Connecticut over the years, these reports are typically the result of misidentification of other species or of captive animals that have escaped or been released. The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) does not currently consider mountain lions to be present in the state.
Delaware
There are no known mountain lion range in Delaware. Historically, mountain lions were found throughout the eastern United States, including in Delaware, but hunting and habitat loss led to their extirpation from the region by the early 1900s.
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in Delaware over the years, these reports are typically the result of misidentification of other species or of captive animals that have escaped or been released. The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) does not currently consider mountain lions to be present in the state.
Florida
Mountain lions were historically present in Florida but were extirpated from the state by the mid-20th century. However, in the 1990s, a small population of Florida panthers was discovered in the southern part of the state, in the Big Cypress National Preserve and the Everglades. Today, the Florida panther is a federally endangered subspecies of mountain lion, with an estimated population of around 120 individuals.
The Florida panther’s range is limited to south Florida, and they primarily inhabit wetlands, forests, and other natural habitats in the region. They are a solitary species and typically avoid contact with humans, although there have been occasional reports of panthers attacking livestock or pets.
Georgia
Mountain lions are not known to have an established population in Georgia. Historically, mountain lions were found throughout the eastern United States, including in Georgia, but hunting and habitat loss led to their extirpation from the region by the early 1900s.
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in Georgia over the years, these reports are typically the result of misidentification of other species or of captive animals that have escaped or been released. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) does not currently consider mountain lions to be present in the state.
Hawaii
No, there are no mountain lions in Hawaii. The species is not native to the islands and has never been introduced. The only large predators that are native to Hawaii are Hawaiian monk seals and sharks.
Hawaii is home to a unique array of wildlife species, many of which are found nowhere else in the world. These include a variety of bird species, sea turtles, and marine mammals such as humpback whales and spinner dolphins.
Idaho
Yes, mountain lions are present in Idaho. The species is found throughout the state, although their populations are more concentrated in the central and northern regions. Mountain lions inhabit a variety of habitats, including forests, mountains, and desert areas.
Idaho has a healthy population of mountain lions, and hunting of the species is allowed under regulated hunting seasons. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game manages the state’s mountain lion population, with the goal of ensuring sustainable hunting opportunities while maintaining healthy populations of the species.
Illinois
No, mountain lions are not known to have an established population in Illinois. Historically, mountain lions were found throughout the eastern United States, including in Illinois, but hunting and habitat loss led to their extirpation from the region by the early 1900s.
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in Illinois over the years, these reports are typically the result of misidentification of other species or of captive animals that have escaped or been released. The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (DNR) does not currently consider mountain lions to be present in the state.
Indiana
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or panthers, are not known to have an established population in Indiana. Historically, mountain lions were found throughout the eastern United States, including in Indiana, but hunting and habitat loss led to their extirpation from the region by the early 1900s.
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in Indiana over the years, these reports are typically the result of misidentification of other species or of captive animals that have escaped or been released. The Indiana Department of Natural Resources (DNR) does not currently consider mountain lions to be present in the state.
Iowa
There is currently no evidence that mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) have an established population in Iowa. However, there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in the state over the years, and there have been confirmed reports of mountain lions traveling through Iowa.
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) receives reports of mountain lion sightings from time to time, but these sightings are usually attributed to individual animals that have traveled into Iowa from neighboring states such as Nebraska, South Dakota, or Missouri.
Kansas
Yes, mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) are present in Kansas. The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism (KDWPT) confirms that mountain lions have been documented in the state through various methods including trail cameras, sightings, and confirmed tracks.
The mountain lion population in Kansas is believed to be small and scattered, and individuals are believed to move in and out of the state from neighboring states such as Colorado, Nebraska, and Oklahoma. However, the KDWPT encourages people to report any sightings of mountain lions in Kansas to help monitor the population.
Kentucky
There is currently no evidence of an established population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Kentucky. However, there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in the state over the years, and there have been confirmed reports of mountain lions traveling through Kentucky.
The Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources receives reports of mountain lion sightings from time to time, but these sightings are usually attributed to individual animals that have traveled into Kentucky from neighboring states such as Missouri or Tennessee.
Louisiana
There is currently no evidence of an established population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Louisiana. However, there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in the state over the years, and there have been confirmed reports of mountain lions traveling through Louisiana.
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries occasionally receives reports of mountain lion sightings, but these sightings are usually attributed to individual animals that have traveled into Louisiana from neighboring states such as Texas.
Maine
There is no evidence of an established population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Maine. While there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in Maine over the years, these sightings are generally attributed to individual animals that have traveled into Maine from Quebec, Canada.
Maryland
There is no evidence of an established population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Maryland. While there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in Maryland over the years, these sightings are generally attributed to individual animals that have traveled into Maryland from other states such as Pennsylvania or West Virginia.
Massachusettes
There is no evidence of an established population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Massachusetts. While there have been occasional sightings of mountain lions in Massachusetts over the years, these sightings are generally attributed to individual animals that have traveled into Massachusetts from other states such as New Hampshire or Connecticut.
In 2011, a mountain lion was killed on a highway in Milford, Connecticut, and DNA testing confirmed that the animal had originated from South Dakota. While it is possible that individual mountain lions could make their way to Massachusetts in a similar manner, there is no evidence of a resident population.
Michigan
There is evidence of a small and growing population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Michigan, although their numbers are still considered to be very low. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) estimates that there may be as many as 40-50 individual mountain lions living in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Mountain lions were once native to Michigan but were extirpated from the state in the early 1900s due to hunting and habitat loss. However, occasional sightings of mountain lions continued to be reported in Michigan over the years, and the DNR confirmed the presence of a breeding population of mountain lions in the state in 2008.
Minnesota
There have been occasional sightings of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Minnesota over the years, but there is currently no evidence of an established population of these animals in the state. Most of the sightings reported in Minnesota are likely individual animals that have traveled into the state from other nearby states such as South Dakota, North Dakota, or Iowa.
Missouri
Yes, there is a small and growing population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Missouri. Mountain lions were once native to Missouri, but they were extirpated from the state in the early 1900s due to hunting and habitat loss. However, occasional sightings of mountain lions continued to be reported in Missouri over the years, and the Missouri Department of Conservation confirmed the presence of a breeding population of mountain lions in the state in 1994.
Montana
Yes, Montana is home to a healthy population of mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas). Mountain lions are native to Montana and are found throughout the state, although their distribution is patchy and they are more common in some areas than others.
The Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife, and Parks (FWP) estimates that there are between 4,000 and 6,000 mountain lions in the state. Montana has a hunting season for mountain lions, which is carefully managed by the FWP to ensure that the population remains healthy and sustainable.
Nebraska
Yes, there are mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) in Nebraska. While their population in the state is small, there have been confirmed sightings of mountain lions in Nebraska over the years, and the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission acknowledges the presence of these animals in the state.
Nevada
Yes, mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) are found in Nevada. They are the largest wildcat native to North America and are known to live in a variety of habitats, including deserts, mountains, and forests. In Nevada, they are most commonly found in the mountainous regions, including the Sierra Nevada range and the Great Basin. However, because they are solitary and elusive animals, sightings are relatively rare. It is important to be cautious when hiking or camping in areas where mountain lions are known to be present, as they can be dangerous if provoked.
New Hampshire
No, mountain lions (also known as cougars or pumas) are not known to have a resident population in New Hampshire. While there have been rare sightings reported in the state over the years, there is no evidence to suggest that there is a breeding population of mountain lions in New Hampshire. The eastern cougar, which historically ranged throughout the eastern United States, including New Hampshire, was declared extinct by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2011.
New Jersey
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in New Jersey, there is currently no evidence to support the existence of a breeding population of mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, in the state.
The Eastern Cougar, a subspecies of the mountain lion, was once native to the eastern United States, including New Jersey. However, the last confirmed sighting of an Eastern Cougar in New Jersey was in 1850, and the subspecies was declared extinct by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in 2018.
New Mexico
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are found throughout New Mexico. The state has a healthy and stable population of mountain lions, with estimates of around 3,000 individuals.
New York
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are not considered to be native to New York state. While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in New York over the years, these are generally believed to be individual animals that have either escaped from captivity or migrated from populations in other states.
North Carolina
Mountain lions are not considered to be native to North Carolina. While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in the state over the years, the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) considers these to be cases of individual animals that have either escaped from captivity or migrated from populations in other states.
North Dakota
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in North Dakota, but their numbers are relatively low compared to other states in the western United States. The North Dakota Game and Fish Department estimate the current population of mountain lions in the state to be around 100-150 individuals.
Mountain lions are primarily found in the western half of North Dakota, where they inhabit rugged terrain such as badlands and coulees. They are solitary animals and are usually elusive, avoiding contact with humans whenever possible.
Ohio
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are not considered to be native to Ohio. There have been some unconfirmed sightings of mountain lions in Ohio over the years, but there is no evidence to support the existence of a breeding population of these animals in the state.
While the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Division encourages residents to report any sightings of mountain lions or evidence of their presence, such as tracks or scat, they note that many reported sightings turn out to be other animals, such as bobcats or large domestic cats.
Oklahoma
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation (ODWC) estimates the population of mountain lions in the state to be around 500-700 individuals, although this is a rough estimate since the animals are difficult to count due to their solitary and elusive nature.
Mountain lions are primarily found in the western half of Oklahoma, where they inhabit rugged terrain such as mountains and canyons. They are usually shy and avoid contact with humans, but encounters can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
Oregon
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Oregon. The state has one of the largest populations of mountain lions in the western United States, with an estimated 6,000 individuals.
Mountain lions are found throughout Oregon, although they are most common in the eastern and southern parts of the state, where their habitat includes mountains, forests, and desert canyons. They are solitary animals and are usually shy and elusive, but encounters with humans can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
Pennsylvania
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are not considered to be native to Pennsylvania. While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in the state over the years, the Pennsylvania Game Commission considers these to be cases of individual animals that have either escaped from captivity or migrated from populations in other states.
Rhode Island
The Mountain lion range is not considered to be native to Rhode Island. While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in the state over the years, there is no evidence to support the existence of a breeding population of these animals in the state.
South Carolina
The Mountain lion range is not considered to be native to South Carolina While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in the state over the years, there is no evidence to support the existence of any population of these animals in the state.
South Dakota
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in South Dakota. The state has a healthy population of mountain lions, estimated to be around 300-400 individuals.
Mountain lions are found throughout South Dakota, although they are most common in the Black Hills region, where their habitat includes forested areas and rugged terrain. They are solitary animals and are usually shy and elusive, but encounters with humans can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
Tennesse
Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are not considered to be native to Tennessee. While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in the state over the years, there is no evidence to support the existence of a breeding population of these animals in the state.
Texas
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Texas. Texas has a healthy population of mountain lions, estimated to be around 4,000-5,000 individuals.
Mountain lions are found throughout Texas, although they are most common in the western and southern parts of the state, where their habitat includes rugged terrain and dense vegetation. They are solitary animals and are usually shy and elusive, but encounters with humans can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
Utah
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Utah. Utah has a healthy population of mountain lions, estimated to be around 2,500-3,500 individuals.
Mountain lions are found throughout Utah, although they are most common in the Northern parts of the state, where their habitat includes rugged terrain and dense vegetation. They are solitary animals and are usually shy and elusive, but encounters with humans can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
Vermont
While there have been some reported sightings of mountain lions in Vermont in recent years, it’s possible that these are animals that have wandered into the state from neighboring states or are released captive animals. The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department encourages residents to report any sightings or evidence of mountain lions so that they can better understand the presence and behavior of these animals in the state.
Virginia
There is no evidence of a breeding population of mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, in Virginia. However, there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in the state over the years.
Washington
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Washington. The state has a healthy population of mountain lions, estimated to be around 2,500-3,000 individuals.
Mountain lions are found throughout Washington, although they are most common in the eastern parts of the state, where their habitat includes rugged terrain and dense vegetation. They are solitary animals and are usually shy and elusive, but encounters with humans can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
West Virginia
While there have been occasional reports of mountain lion sightings in West Virginia over the years, there is no confirmed evidence of a breeding population of these animals in the state.
Wisconsin
There may be mountain lions in Wisconsin. recently in 2022 trail cameras caught a few pictures of mountain lions in Wisconsin. This makes Wisconsin a possible mountain lion range.
Wyoming
Yes, mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Wyoming. The state has a healthy population of these animals, estimated to be around 3,000 individuals.
Mountain lions are found throughout Wyoming, although they are most commonly found in the western and central parts of the state, where their habitat includes mountainous terrain and forested areas with ample prey such as deer and elk. They are solitary animals and are usually shy and elusive, but encounters with humans can occur, particularly in areas where their habitat overlaps with human settlements.
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