By Misi Stine, Environmental Educator and member of the MN Herpetological Society
In this continuing series on species identification, we will explore the three wild cats found in Minnesota. I will begin with the species that stands out from the other two: the cougar (Puma concolor), which is the most distinct in size and color/pattern. The cougar is widely distributed across North, Central, and South America and has many common names, including mountain lion, panther, puma, and catamount.
Cougar (Felix Concolor). Shahzaib Damn Cruze, CC BY-SA 4.0
Cougars typically grow to 7-8 feet in length, with a tail that makes up approximately one-third of their body length. This long tail helps them maintain balance and change direction quickly when pursuing prey. Males weigh between 140-175 pounds, while adult females weigh up to 110 pounds. Their fur is coarse and short, ranging from tawny to beige, with a white underside and black markings on the ears, tip of the tail, and snout.
As apex predators, cougars are generalists in both their diet and the habitats they occupy. Due to their size, they can hunt and kill a variety of prey, both large and small, including deer, beaver, raccoons, squirrels, rabbits, porcupines, birds, and even coyotes.
An interesting fact about cougars is that they cannot roar, unlike other big cats. Instead, you might hear chirping or whistling noises in the forest. They also growl, hiss, purr, and shriek, similar to domestic house cats (click here to listen to their calls). They can even sound like a bird (Click here)
Cougars are considered rare in Minnesota, though sightings appear to be increasing. This may be due in part to the use of trail and security cameras that document the occasional cougar passing through. However, cougars are not considered a native species to Minnesota because there is no established breeding population. They were, however, found in Minnesota before European settlement. The closest breeding population is in the Black Hills to the west.
When cougars are spotted in Minnesota, they are almost exclusively young males dispersing in search of a mate and territory. Male cougars can establish territories up to 100 square miles, and older males often drive younger males away. These young males may travel long distances (Click here for more information) to find an unoccupied territory with enough food and a mate.
Cougar (Felix Concolor). Elaine R. Wilson, CC BY-SA 3.0
Females can also disperse but typically establish territories near their mothers. This is why it takes so long for breeding populations to expand into new areas. If a female does reach Minnesota and is killed, it could take a long time for another female to arrive.
If you are fortunate enough to spot a cougar in the wild, please do not shoot it, as they are a protected species. They may only be killed by an authorized permit holder or a licensed peace officer. Report any sightings or encounters to a conservation officer or local law enforcement as soon as possible. Please provide any evidence, such as photos, videos, and the location of tracks, hair, or scat.
Note: Human encounters with cougars are rare, even in areas with large populations. If you encounter a cougar and it does not run away or approaches you, face the animal, yell, wave your arms, and try to appear larger and more intimidating. Back away to a safe location.
Next time, we will compare the other two wild cats of Minnesota—the lynx and the bobcat, which are more challenging to tell apart.
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