Understanding the Difference between Cougar and Mountain Lion
Cougar
The cougar, also known as puma, panther, or mountain lion, is a large predatory feline found in North and South America. They have long slender bodies with muscular limbs and a short, rounded head. Cougars have a unique coat that ranges from tawny brown to grayish-black with prominent black spots on the back and a white underside. Their eyes are almond-shaped and set apart on their skull, allowing for an exceptional depth perception when stalking prey.
Cougars are nocturnal animals and are solitary hunters, preferring to stalk and ambush their prey rather than chasing it down in open terrain. Their diet mainly consists of deer, but they also feed on smaller animals like rabbits and rodents. These powerful hunters are territorial and often mark their boundaries with urine or scratch marks on trees.
Mountain Lion
The term mountain lion is often used interchangeably with cougar, puma or panther. However, there is actually no difference between the mountain lion and cougar. They are the same species of feline that inhabit the western hemisphere of North America.
Mountain lions have earned their name from their preference for rocky outcroppings and steep mountainous terrain. They are commonly found in the arid regions of the western United States and are known for their agility and speed. They are also referred to as ghost cats because they are notoriously elusive and difficult to spot.
Mountains lions are apex predators that are capable of taking down large prey like elk and moose. They are capable of leaping up to 20 feet in a single bound, which is a reflection of their physical prowess. They are solitary animals and spend most of their time in dense forests or rocky terrain.
The Final Verdict
While the terms cougar and mountain lion are often used interchangeably, they are just two different names for the same animal. These large predatory felines are known for their agility, stealth, and strength, and are found throughout the Americas. Whether you call them cougar or mountain lion, one thing’s for sure, these animals are truly remarkable hunters, and we are fortunate that they still roam in the wild today.
Table difference between cougar and mountain lion
| Characteristic | Cougar | Mountain Lion |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Puma concolor | Puma concolor |
| Other Names | Mountain lion, puma, panther, catamount | Cougar, puma, panther, catamount |
| Habitat | Forest, mountains, deserts, swamps, grasslands | Forest, mountains, deserts, swamps, grasslands |
| Distribution | Mostly in western North America, from Canadian Yukon to southern Andes in South America | Mostly in western North America, from Canadian Yukon to southern Andes in South America |
| Size | Length: 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters) Weight: 90 to 200 pounds (41 to 91 kilograms) |
Length: 6 to 7.5 feet (1.8 to 2.3 meters) Weight: 90 to 200 pounds (41 to 91 kilograms) |
| Color | Tan, brown, or gray with black spots on the body and tail | Tan, brown, or gray with black spots on the body and tail |
| Ear tufts | No | Yes |
| Tail length | Longer | Shorter |