Cougar

Cranky cats

Cougars are top predators in Yellowstone, preying on many of the same animals as wolves. Cougars are solitary and hunt by stealth and ambush. They prefer rocky areas where they can hide. A cougar is more than a match for a single wolf. However, bears and packs of wolves can displace cougars from their kills as cougars prefer to avoid fights. In general, wolves and cougars steer clear of each other but they will kill each other’s young, given the chance.

Cougars prefer to avoid wolves but they are dangerous when provoked.

Quick Facts

Cougar (Puma concolor)

Cougars are the largest North American cat. They are also known as mountain lions, pumas, and catamounts. Cougars are present in Yellowstone but seldom seen. They are solitary and very territorial.

  • SIZE: 29-90 kg (64-198 lbs); 60-76 cm (2-2.5 ft) tall at the shoulders; 2.4 meters (8 ft) long

  • TOP SPEED: 55-72 km/h (35-45 mph)

  • DIET: Carnivore (eats meat): elk (mostly calves), mule deer, rodents, and carrion.

Cougars in WolfQuest

Cougars are more easily chased from carcasses than bears, but they are very hard to kill.

Be cautious when harassing cougars as they are faster than wolves and can effortlessly deal heavy damage in quick succession.

Wolves do not eat cougars or other carnivores (they probably don’t taste good).

Cougars will come to your den to kill your pups — but wolf parents are very good at defending their dens from cougars.

Cougar cubs and dens are not seen in the game.