Also known as: Mountain lion, Puma, Panther
Mountain Lion Report a Mountain Lion Sighting Fact Sheet Tracks: Frontβ 3" L, 3-1/2" W Rearβ 3" L, 3" W Walking stride: 19" - 32" Total Length 60-108 inches Weight 75-170 pounds Fun Facts: Mountain lions are also known as cougars, pumas and Florida panthers. There has never been a scientifically documented case of a melanistic mountain lion. In other words, a black mountain lion has never been trapped, shot, killed by an automobile, photographed or bred in a zoo in recorded history. However, many mountain lion sightings in North Dakota and other states are of "black" mountain lions. Other Information Mountain Lion Brochure
Habitat & Range
Mountain lions inhabit the badlands and Missouri River breaks regions of North Dakota. However, because they are capable of traveling great distances, they have turned up in all parts of North Dakota. The main habitat requirement for mountain lions is stalking cover to successfully hunt prey. Stalking cover can be in the form of trees, brush or rugged topography. Breeding Season Can breed anytime of the year, but peak activity occurs February-March. Gestation Period 92 days Litter Size 1-5 (average 2-3) Social Aspects Solitary, except when breeding or rearing young.
Life History
Food: Mountain lions are strictly carnivorous with deer and elk comprising most of their diet. Additional prey includes bighorn sheep, porcupines, rabbits and turkeys. Although not common, mountain lions are known to kill livestock.
Status, Trends & Threats
There is a stable mountain lion population in western North Dakota, where there is a limited hunting season. Mountain Lion Track Identification Video Mountain Lion Track Identification (pdf)
Hunting Season
Zone 1 Early (firearms/archery): Aug 29 β Nov 23; Zone 1 Late (plus dogs): Nov 24 β Mar 31; Zone 2: Aug 29 β Mar 31 (dogs allowed Nov 24 β Mar 31)
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Mountain Lion in North Dakota
Mountain lion hunting in North Dakota is for residents only. Traps and cable devices prohibited. Zone 1 (west of US Hwy 83): Early season (archery/firearms) Aug 29 β Nov 23, cap of 8; Late season (dogs allowed) Nov 24 β Mar 31, cap of 7 total or 3 females. Zone 2 (rest of state): Aug 29 β Mar 31, no harvest limit. Mandatory registration within 12 hours. Entire carcass including head must be presented.
Are mountain lions common in North Dakota?
A stable population exists in western North Dakota where a limited hunting season is held. They primarily occupy the badlands and Missouri River breaks.
How big are mountain lions?
Total length ranges from 60-108 inches, weight 75-170 pounds. Their tail is nearly as long as the body and ends with a black tip.
When is Mountain Lion hunting season in North Dakota?
Zone 1 Early (firearms/archery): Aug 29 β Nov 23; Zone 1 Late (plus dogs): Nov 24 β Mar 31; Zone 2: Aug 29 β Mar 31 (dogs allowed Nov 24 β Mar 31)
What is the bag limit for Mountain Lion in North Dakota?
1 per person (residents only). Zone 1 caps: 8 early, 7 late (max 3 females). Zone 2: no harvest limit
What's another name for Mountain Lion?
Mountain Lion is also known as Mountain lion, Puma, Panther in North Dakota.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Zone 1 Early (firearms/archery): Aug 29 β Nov 23; Zone 1 Late (plus dogs): Nov 24 β Mar 31; Zone 2: Aug 29 β Mar 31 (dog | Link |
| North Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Mountain lion hunting in North Dakota is for residents only. Traps and cable devices prohibited. Zone 1 (west of US Hwy | Link |
