Mountain Lions in Wyoming: identification guide and where to start looking
Yes, mountain lions live throughout Wyoming, especially in the Rocky Mountain foothills, breaks, and canyon country. Start by focusing on rimrock edges and learning to recognize their tracks and scat. This guide covers field marks, lookalikes, and the best windows for a confident sighting.
Yes, mountain lions live throughout Wyoming, especially in the Rocky Mountain foothills, breaks, and canyon country. Start by focusing on rimrock edges and learning to recognize their tracks and scat. This guide covers field marks, lookalikes, and the best windows for a confident sighting.
What are the key physical features to identify a mountain lion in Wyoming?
Mountain lions are large, unspotted cats with a tawny coat, a long black-tipped tail (one third of total length), and a small rounded head with prominent dark markings on the muzzle. Adults weigh 80-200 pounds and stand about 2-3 feet at the shoulder. Juveniles have faint spots that fade by 6 months. Look for a heavy, muscular build and a distinctive "S" curve when walking.
How do you distinguish mountain lions from bobcats and other animals?
Bobcats are much smaller (15-35 pounds), have a short stubby tail, and distinct facial ruffs and ear tufts. Domestic dogs and coyotes have rounder heads and carry their tails down, not long and ropelike. The tail is the best quick mark: a mountain lion's tail is about 2.5-3 feet long, black only at the tip, and often seen swinging as the animal moves.
Where in Wyoming are you most likely to see a mountain lion?
Most sightings occur in the Bighorn and Absaroka ranges, the Wind River Range, and the Medicine Bow Mountains. Look in rocky terrain with steep canyons near deer and elk winter range. Themountain lion animal hubhas range maps for specific areas. Your best odds are along river breaks and rimrock edges at dawn and dusk.
When is the best season for mountain lion sightings in Wyoming?
Winter (December through March) is ideal because snow reveals tracks and lions may come lower following deer and elk. Early spring also works. During summer they move to higher elevations. The best time of day is early morning and late evening. For more on seasonal patterns, visit ourWyoming wildlifepage.
See ourstate animal guidefor the next step.
What signs should you look for besides a direct sighting?
Look for tracks: four toes with no claw marks, a large heel pad with two lobes at the front and three at the back, measuring 3-4 inches long. Scat is often segmented, about 1-1.5 inches in diameter, and may contain hair or bone fragments. Scratched piles on the ground (scrapes) and claw marks on trees are also common sign. Check ourmountain lion identification guidefor detailed photos.
Where can you find mountain lion tracking tours or guides in Wyoming?
Several licensed outfitters offer tracking trips in the Bighorns and near Cody. The following tool can help you find providers that offer guided wildlife viewing.
Mountain lion identification gear and apparel
If you want to bring a reminder of your search, these practical items help you share your interest.
### Mountain Lion Watercolor Clipart Set of 4
This digital set works for custom stickers, mugs, or your own wildlife journal. Use the designs to label field notes or create tracking cards.Check Price and Availability
### Mountain lion t-shirt
A simple, comfortable shirt for everyday wear. Solid colors are preshrunk cotton, heather blends available. Sizes S-3XL.Check Price and Availability
### Mountain Lion Lion Classic T-Shirt
Standard fit with double-needle hems. Solid 100% preshrunk cotton, heather blends. Front or back print available. Range of colors.Check Price and Availability
Browse moremountain lion t-shirtsto find your style.
Frequently asked questions about mountain lion identification in Wyoming
**Are mountain lions common in Wyoming?** Yes, Wyoming has a stable population estimated at 2,000-3,000 individuals, but they are elusive and rarely seen.
**What should I do if I see a mountain lion?** Do not run. Make yourself appear larger by raising your arms, speak firmly, and slowly back away. Maintain eye contact.
**Can you mistake a mountain lion for a deer?** No. Their tawny color might blend with grass, but their long tail and face shape are distinct. Deer have white tails and different body proportions.
**What is the best way to learn tracks?** Start by comparing dog and cat tracks. Mountain lion tracks show no claw marks and have a unique heel pad shape. Ourmountain lion identification guidehas a printable track diagram.
See ourtour planning ideasfor the next step.