Mountain lion, puma, cougar, panther: the most wide-ranging large carnivore in the Western hemisphere goes by many names. Known scientifically as Puma concolor, it is capable of taking down prey many times its own weight. But while mountain lions are skilled predators who deserve respect, there is more to them than that.
The new short film The Secret Life of Mountain Lions provides a rare glimpse into the lesser-known aspects of puma behavior. By following cougar families with remote cameras, scientists with Panthera’s Teton Cougar Project have been able to capture incredible footage of these shy cats. They documented mothers comforting their children during times of stress, sharing meals with their cubs’ fathers, and even adopting orphaned kittens. Such findings cast doubt on age-old myths that portray mountain lions as heartless killers.
This video has to be seen to be believed, so I have embedded it below. Also, I recommend taking the time to check out The Secret Life of Mountain Lions’ web page. There you will find information about cougars and their conservation, a list of resources for further learning, and an opportunity to sign up for webinars about these remarkable cats. There is one coming up on September 28, so be sure to register now!
Without further ado, here is The Secret Life of Mountain Lions. Many thanks to my friend Sandy for sharing it with me, and to Dr. Mark Elbroch for making it publicly available.
The Jaguar 
Your passion for big cats since I’ve discovered your website has always amazed me. You’re the sort of blogger than inspires me to keep coming back, and maybe perhaps – eventually to action.
Well done on an amazing post, again!
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Wow, that’s one of the best compliments I’ve ever received! Truly, I’m honored that my passion for big cats has inspired you so much!
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A fascinating six minutes of viewing. Thank you Josh.
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Thanks Les! If you want to learn more about mountain lions, I might be releasing lots of posts about them in the near future ;)
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Have you read “Heart of a Lion: A Lone Cat’s Walk Across America”? I am currently reading this book about cougars and I think you would like it.
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I haven’t read it, but I would if I could find the time. However, William Stolzenburg will be leading a webinar about that book on the 26th. I’ve already registered for it! Here’s a link with more information:
http://www.thesecretlifeofmountainlions.org/webinars.html
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Wow! I just watched the short film, and I’m absolutely amazed by the mountain lions. What beautiful creatures, it’s so unfortunate that they face so many threats. Thank you for raising awareness about the need for their conservation through your blog.. you’ve reached a person from across the globe! Have you seen a mountain lion in the wild yet?
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Thanks Lavanya! It really does feel good to be able to share information about the wildlife that now lives in my backyard. No, I’ve not yet seen a mountain lion. They’re incredibly shy, and the many of the people who live near them never get to see one in the wild. I’d love to though!
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