also known as the Cougar or Mountain Lion
A cat native to the Pacific Northwest, they are some of the most active of the feline species especially during the cooler seasons. The largest of the “purring” cats, the puma can entice you with their sweet rumble and chirps. Females in estrus (also known as in heat) make a sound reminiscent to a woman screaming as they call out for a “boyfriend”. It can get pretty noisy in the springtime. Being young predators they are particularly enthralled with bright colored, quick moving objects (for example, small fast paced children). This is why we have signage and reinforcement of “Don’t Run! You Look Like Food!” A play area is provided for the kiddos to get their energy out before visiting the animal exhibit areas.
MEET OUR PUMAS
HOPE and JACKSON
Hope and Jackson, the brother and sister pair came to us in late 2019 as small cubs. Originally destined for a zoo in New York, frigid weather made the transfer delayed and Cat Tales was contacted regarding possible placement. We were happy to provide them a forever home.
Spotted at birth these siblings have grown into tan adults. Jackson is neutered to prevent sibling breeding and were ultimately separated as adults due to size and seasonal differences. Pumas in the wild are a solitary animal except during breeding season. As adults, Hope and Jackson enjoy having their own spaces. They are some of the most active cats at Cat Tales. Born September 25, 2019
KACHINA
Kachina became part of the Cat Tales family in September 2018. Kachina is a name relating to a powerful spirit of the Pueblo people. It is undeniable that Kachina is our wild princess. All her energy and personality has come out fully as she has matured, leaving her a headstrong and cunning puma. An example of perfect camouflage, she is often hiding in plain sight and goes un-noticed until she springs from the shadows. Her personality flip side is her estrus (heat) cycle. This is when Kachina can be heard loudly calling for a mate. Born July 19, 2018.
ABOUT THE PUMA
Habitat: Forested and mountainous regions of the Americas;
Lifespan: In the Wild, 8-13 years; In Captivity, 18-20 years;
Diet: Carnivore;
Status: Least concern;
Interesting and little-known facts about pumas;
Pumas are also known as cougars, mountain lions, and panthers.
They are solitary and territorial animals, preferring to hunt and live alone.
Pumas have the largest range of any land mammal in the Western Hemisphere.
Their powerful legs allow them to jump up to 18 feet high and 40 feet in length in a single bound.
Pumas are excellent climbers and can climb trees to escape predators or to find prey.
They have a keen sense of hearing and can detect sounds up to five times better than humans.
Pumas are skilled hunters and can take down prey much larger than themselves, including deer and elk.
Pumas are found throughout North and South America, from the Yukon to Patagonia.
They are considered a "near-threatened" species due to habitat loss and hunting.
Myths and misconceptions:
Myth: Pumas are man-eaters.
Fact: Pumas are generally not a threat to humans and will usually avoid contact with them. Attacks on humans are rare, and when they do occur, they are often the result of the puma feeling threatened or cornered.
Myth: Pumas are nocturnal animals.
Fact: Pumas are crepuscular, which means they are most active during dawn and dusk. They can also be active during the day and night.
Myth: Pumas are only found in remote wilderness areas.
Fact: Pumas have adapted to living in urban areas and can be found in suburban areas or even within city limits.
Myth: Pumas are a danger to livestock.
Fact: While pumas are capable of killing livestock, they typically prey on wild animals such as deer and rabbits. The majority of their diet is made up of wild animals.
Myth: Pumas are a threat to endangered species.
Fact: Pumas are not a significant threat to endangered species, as they mainly prey on common and abundant species. In fact, they can even help to control populations of overabundant prey species.
