Cougar

Puma concolor
Cougar at Plumpton Park Zoo in Rising Sun, Maryland
The Cougar, which is also commonly referred to as a puma, mountain lion or panther, is the second largest cat in North America. Skilled and cunning hunters, cougars stay hidden from their prey until they can pounce with claws out-stretched. Cougars can also climb with ease and leap over 20 ft. After killing a large animal, a cougar hides the carcass and eats in the coming days.

Cougars have the largest range of any wild land animal in the Western Hemisphere, historically found from Canada to the southern tip of South America. They are solitary, territorial animals that mark their range with scent and claw marks rather than seeking out company. Cougar kittens are born with dark spots and blue eyes, both of which fade as they mature into adulthood. Meet our cougar at Plumpton Park Zoo — plan your visit.

DIET

Cougars prey on deer, though they also eat smaller
animals such as coyotes, porcupines, and raccoons.
They usually hunt at night or during
the hours of dawn
and dusk.

FAST FACTS

Size: 5 – 9 feet length
Weight: 100 – 150 lbs
Lifespan: 10 years in the wild

CONSERVATION STATUS

LEAST CONCERN