Felis concolor
Mountain Lion, referred to also as the cougar, puma, and panther, the mountain lion is solitary and prefers isolated or undisturbed, game-rich wilderness. Though not commonly seen within the recreation area, evidence of the mountain lion can be found within some canyon areas. They are a uniform tawny color with white underneath, and it is of slender build with long legs, and a long tail with a dark brown tip. The mountain lion of the southwest is paler and smaller than those living in the high mountains of the north. Its den is usually any well concealed, sheltered place. Young are born usually no more than two at a time, during any month of the year. Habitat: Mountain lions prefer isolated canyon areas. Diet: As a large carnivore, it requires large quantities of food. In other regions its primary food source is deer, but in this region desert bighorn is its primary prey. It also eats smaller prey such as rabbits and some rodents. It caches whatever portion it does not eat of its kill, covering the meat with leaves and debris. Adaptations: The mountain lion, unlike most cats, is very well camouflaged and may be active during the day. It has a very keen sense of hearing.
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