Mountain Lions (Puma concolor)

Answers to the three most frequently asked questions about mountain lions.

Click on a question below to jump to the answer.


Beast in the Garden? A mountain lion In Yellowstone

  1. Are mountain lions dangerous to humans?
  2. How can I protect myself from pumas when I am recreating or exercising outdoors?
  3. How can I protect myself and my family if I live in mountain lion country?




Are mountain lions dangerous to humans?

Although mountain lions generally avoid people, clearly they are built to be dangerous, and pumas have killed a few people. Notably, between 1890 and 2004, only 17 fatalities and 94 injuries occurred as a result of interactions between humans and mountain lions. In Colorado, mountain lions have killed two people since 1890.

How can I protect myself from pumas when I am recreating or exercising outdoors?

  • To prevent conflicts, trail runners, hikers and mountain bikers should run/ride with others. Carry a deterrent, such as a walking stick. Avoid activity at dawn or dusk. Solitary individuals-especially those under age of 16-are more likely to sustain an attack than are multiple people.
  • If you encounter a mountain lion: watch the lion (focus on his feet), yell, show your teeth, move backwards slowly, throw rocks or sticks (do not bend down or crouch), raise your arms over head to appear large. If wearing a jacket, grab the corners and lift it over your back (like wings) to appear larger. If approached, be aggressive; do not turn your back on the animal; never run away.

How can I protect myself and my family if I live in mountain lion country?

  • In mountain lion country, do not allow children to play outside at dawn or dusk. Most victims of attacks are children. Children under 16 not accompanied by an adult are at the greatest risk.
  • Install lighting in areas where family or pets move at dark.
  • Secure and confine pets, especially over night. Keep them in kennels with a secure top or enclosed in a building. Leash dogs when walking; always keep house cats indoors.
  • Eliminate hiding places such as dense vegetation near the house (especially in children's play areas). Play areas should be supervised and consider fencing play areas. Mountain lions ambush their prey; a fence is a good deterrent.
  • Do not attract deer or other prey species; deer-proof fences of 6-8 feet high will deter deer and mountain lions. Plant native foliage to avoid attracting wildlife.

Photo: The real deal in Yellowstone. Dave Jones. Copyright 2005.

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