Quck answer
Mountain lion and cougar are two names for the same animal, also known as Puma concolor. The differences are purely regional and based on the location of the animal. The name “mountain lion” is typically used in the western United States, while “cougar” is more commonly used in the eastern United States and Canada. However, both names refer to the same animal, which is a large carnivorous cat with a tan or grayish-brown coat and a long tail. The mountain lion/cougar is known for its agility and strength, and it is found throughout the Americas.
Wild Animals
The cougar is an animal with many names, and the name it is called depends on its location and habitat. DENNIS AXER PhotographyGetty Images
Did you know that the cougar has the most names among living mammals? This animal is known by several names such as puma, panther, mountain cat, mountain lion, mountain screamer, painter, and catamount. It has around 40 names in English alone, and the reason for this is the different habitats it occupies. The cougar is adaptable and can thrive in various locations, from the Southern Andes in South America to the Yukon in Canada. Its range extends from Texas to the Canadian border in the western part of the United States, with the only confirmed population in the East found in Florida.
The different names for the cougar originated from the locals of their native range, according to Dr. Jeremy Goodman, the executive director of Roger Williams Park Zoo in Providence, Rhode Island. For instance, the Incas called it puma, while the name cougar is derived from the old South American Indian word cuguacuarana. The Spanish explorers gave it the name mountain lion, which means “cat of the mountain,” while panther is a term used for any large cat with a solid-colored coat.
The cougar’s scientific name is Puma concolor, which is recognized as the largest of the small cat species. There are no significant differences between the cougar and the mountain lion since they are from the same species. However, there are some slight variations in size, depending on the geographical location, climate, and diet.
Are There Any Contrasts Between Cougars and Mountain Lions?
According to Charlie Jasper, founder of C&C Security Consultants, there are no notable differences between the two, except for their vernacular taxonomy. Panthers in Florida and Southeastern U.S. tend to be smaller compared to their counterparts in other regions. The cougar has a slender body, a round head, and erect ears, with a solid tawny-colored coat. In humid regions, it tends to be darker and reddish-brown, while those in colder areas have thicker and longer silver-gray hair.
Cougars are large felines with powerful builds, retractable claws, and sharp teeth. They have strong hind legs that allow them to jump great distances and a flexible spine that enables quick and sudden movements. Adult cougars can grow up to 5 feet in length, with males weighing between 115 and 220 pounds and females weighing from 65 to 140 pounds.
While cougars are apex predators and should be considered dangerous, attacks on humans are rare. However, if a cougar feels cornered or if a human appears to be an easy target, they may attack. In the event of an attack, making oneself appear larger and more menacing can help to deter the animal. Cougars typically employ a neck bite when attacking, and children are at the greatest risk of harm.
As carnivores, cougars require meat in their diet and will eat any animal they can catch. Their primary prey is deer, but they will also consume other large mammals, livestock, rodents, and even other predators. Cougars rarely scavenge for food and prefer to kill their prey themselves. They typically drag their kill to a preferred spot and feed on it over several days.
Of the 20 subspecies of cougar, three are considered endangered due to hunting and habitat loss. As human populations continue to expand into cougar habitats, there is a need for continued protection of these animals to prevent human-animal conflicts.
That’s Interesting Indeed
Cougars, also called mountain screamers, emit low-pitched purrs and growls but cannot roar like other lions.
This article was first published on February 27, 2020.
FAQ: Mountain Lion vs. Cougar
Is there a difference between a cougar and a mountain lion?
No, they are the same animals but are known by different names in different parts of the world.
Do cougars attack humans?
Though rare, cougars can attack humans. Their status as apex predators makes them highly dangerous in such cases.
Are Florida panthers the same as cougars?
Florida panthers are a subspecies of cougars and one of three endangered cougar species.
Where are cougars commonly found?
Cougars are often found in habitats with open areas, forests, and mountain ranges in South America, Canada, and the western United States.
FAQ
1. What is a mountain lion?
A mountain lion, also known as a puma or cougar, is a large wild cat native to North and South America. It is one of the largest cats in the Americas and can weigh up to 220 pounds and grow up to 9 feet long.
2. What is the difference between a mountain lion and a cougar?
There is no difference between a mountain lion and a cougar. They are two different names for the same species of big cat.
3. Where can mountain lions be found?
Mountain lions can be found in a variety of habitats, from mountainous regions to dense forests. They are native to North and South America and can be found from Canada to Argentina.
4. Are mountain lions dangerous to humans?
While mountain lions are generally solitary and avoid humans, they can be dangerous if provoked or surprised. Attacks on humans are rare, but it is important to be cautious when hiking or camping in mountain lion territory.
5. What do mountain lions eat?
Mountain lions are carnivores and primarily eat large mammals such as deer, elk, and moose. They may also prey on smaller animals such as raccoons, rabbits, and birds.
6. How do mountain lions hunt?
Mountain lions are ambush predators and will stalk their prey before pouncing on them. They are known for their powerful jaws and sharp claws, which they use to quickly kill their prey.
7. How long do mountain lions live?
Mountain lions can live up to 12 years in the wild, although they may live longer in captivity.
8. What is the conservation status of mountain lions?
Mountain lions are not currently endangered, but their population is declining in some areas due to habitat loss and hunting. Some states have implemented hunting regulations to manage their populations.
9. Can mountain lions be kept as pets?
It is illegal to keep a mountain lion as a pet in most states. They are wild animals and are not suited for domestication.
10. How can I stay safe in mountain lion territory?
To stay safe in mountain lion territory, it is important to avoid hiking or camping alone, especially at dawn or dusk when mountain lions are most active. Keep children and pets close and avoid approaching any wildlife you encounter. If you do encounter a mountain lion, make yourself look big and make noise to scare it away.
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