Last Updated on September 14, 2023 by Amin Tawar
Colorado is a state that is well-known for its more than a few fascinating creatures within its boundaries, but few of them are as frightening or powerful as the mountain lion which is also called pumas, cougars, and a few other names.
Mountain lions prefer to creep up on and ambush their target before delivering a deadly bite. Though human and mountain lion interactions are infrequent, attacks might be trending ascending as humans persist to distribute.
In this article, I’ve explained all the things you need to know about mountain lions in Colorado.
Are There Mountain Lions In Colorado?
Yes, mountain lions are present in Colorado. In fact, the state is considered to maintain the highest inhabitants of mountain lions when compared to the other states in the U.S. It is estimated that 3,000 to 7,000 mountain lions roam in Colorado currently.
Colorado’s landscape is excellent for mountain lions, delivering an abundance of mountainous caves for them to hide. These areas allow them to sneak up on and strike their prey while also hiding from dangerous animals.
Where Do Mountain Lions Live In Colorado?
About 60 percent of the state of Colorado is suitable for mountain lion habitat. The adjustable felines can survive in a combination of habitats located in Colorado; from alpine forests to high deserts.
Most of the population is estimated to be present in Colorado Parks and Wildlife which takes up about 57 percent of the state’s appropriate mountain lion habitat. This essentially is from the Front horizon of the Rocky Mountains to the Utah boundary and in regions of the southeast area of the state.
Although mountain lions are physically competent of living in these areas based on vegetative geographical, and prey species attributes, it doesn’t imply they certainly do. Hunting practices, habitat fragmentation, and conflicts with humans can remove them from the area.
How Rare Is It To See A Mountain Lion In Colorado?
Though there is a huge population of mountain lions present in Colorado, it is very rare for humans to encounter one. This is because mountain lions are elusive, isolated big cats that are very timid of humans.
Also Check Our Guide On Mountain Lions IN US
What To Do If You See A Mountain Lion Colorado?
If you spot a mountain lion in Colorado, all you need to do is to stay quiet and make no hurried movements while you gradually back away.
Also, keep your eyes on the mountain lion and do not allow it out of your eyesight as it might give it room to escape or attack you. Never bend down or run away from a mountain lion as it might misunderstand you for prey and running will make them think they are attacking prey.
If the lion keeps getting nearer, then rise your arms or use any clothes to appear larger. You can also make loud noises like clapping while shouting. If the mountain lion has yet not backed off, start throwing anything that you can get in its direction without turning over to scare the animal.
How Many Mountain Lion Attacks Happen In Colorado?
Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) has revealed a brief analysis of mountain lion attacks in the state. Since 1990, there has been a total of 24 known attacks of a mountain lion that has caused harm to humans in Colorado.
Also, three of the attacks that have happened in Colorado have resulted in deaths. To be precise, Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW) does not indicate lion depredation of other creatures as “attacks.” The numbers mentioned above are only the lion-human attacks only.
Can You Hunt Mountain Lions In Colorado?
Yes, you can hunt mountain lions in the State of Colorado. The rules controlling the “recreational” hunting of mountain lions established 180 units.
However, the “harvest limitation quotas” in Colorado do not fix sex-specific limitation quotas but deny the killing of any mountain lion young enough to still hold spots or any accompanied by kittens.
The mountain lion season normally operates from late November to April. Hound hunting of mountain lions is also allowed, but the packs are restricted to only 8 dogs.
Also Check Our Guide On Mountain Lion In Arizona
What Big Cats Live In Colorado?
Other than the mountain lion, the other big cat living in Colorado is the bobcat which is a native to the state and is to be located throughout the state. Bobcats, when compare to mountain lions they are small and more agile.
They can weigh about 35 pounds and have a short, reddish-brown coat with distinct tufted ears. They are usually solitary and mostly active only at night, and they prey on smallish mammals, reptiles, and birds. Bobcats play a crucial role in maintaining the healthy ecosystems of Colorado.
Conclusion
And that was everything you need to know about the Mountain Lions In Colorado. I hope this article answered all your queries.
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