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Introduction:
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Name: Felis concolor - "Cat all of one color" Interesting Fact:The only wide-ranging, long-tailed cat of North America The California mountain lion is also known as "the cat of many names." There are more names in the dictionary for cougars than for any other animal in the world. Although half of California land is prime mountain lion country, this comes as a surprise to many residents and visitors. These large, powerful predators have always lived here, preying on deer and other wildlife, and playing an important role in the ecosystem. They are also known as one of the most adaptable mammals on earth. |
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Photo by Karen McCall and Jim Dutcher
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| The status of the mountain lion in California evolved from
that of "bountied predator" between 1907 and 1963, meaning monetary incentives
were offered for every mountain lion killed, to "game mammal" in 1969, to
"special protected mammal" in 1990. The change in legal status reflected
growing public appreciation and concern for mountain lions.
You may live or play in mountain lion country. Like any wildlife, mountain lions can be dangerous to the uninformed. By arming yourself with a little knowledge of cougar behavior, habitat, and rules for avoidance, you can coexist peacefully with these magnificent animals. |
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Behavior | Lion
Country | Physical Appearance
| Population & Mortality |
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