Mountain Lion Sightings Reported in Texas Despite Being Uncommon

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WACO, TX - Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are large, secretive cats native to Texas and much of the Americas. These solitary carnivores can grow up to 4 feet in body length, with tails extending another 2.5 to 3 feet.

According to Texas Parks & Wildlife, weighing between 70 and 170 pounds, mountain lions are easily recognized by their tawny fur, which can appear gray or almost black in certain light.

Contrary to popular belief, there are no black panthers in North America, as no one has ever captured or documented a black mountain lion.

According to Texas Parks & Wildlife, in Texas, mountain lions are most commonly found in remote areas like the Trans-Pecos, south Texas brushlands, and parts of the Hill Country.

Their diet includes deer, wild hogs, and smaller animals like rabbits and rodents. Though generally elusive, some mountain lions occasionally come into contact with livestock or pets, according to Texas Parks & Wildlife.

While mountain lions once roamed much of North America, they are now mainly found in the western U.S., with a small endangered population in Florida.

In Texas, these majestic predators continue to play an important role in the state's ecosystems.