This wild cat is known by more names than any other animal in the world! In most of the US, it is called a mountain lion, cougar, or puma. In Florida, it is usually called a panther. No matter what the name, the mountain lion is a powerful and important predator. Mountain lions are the stealthiest of cats, hunting prey two to three times their own size. Some mountain lions eat porcupines, quills and all, apparently without any harm. Our mountain lions came to the Zoo after they were found orphaned in the wild at an age where they were much too young to care for themselves. Now they give our guests a chance to experience mountain lions, which frequently roam the hills just east and north of San Diego. We hope you will gain an appreciation of this magnificent cat that lives in San Diego’s own backyard.
