Also known as: Mountain lion, Puma, Panther
The cougar, also called puma, mountain lion, catamount, and panther, is a large feline native to the Americas. It inhabits North, Central and South America, making it the most widely distributed wild, terrestrial mammal in the Western Hemisphere, and one of the most widespread in the world. Its range spans Yukon, British Columbia and Alberta in Canada, the Rocky Mountains and areas in the western United States. Further south, its range extends through Mexico to the Amazon rainforest and the southern Andes Mountains in Patagonia. It is an adaptable generalist species, occurring in most American habitat types. It prefers habitats with dense underbrush and rocky areas for stalking but also lives in open areas.
Hunting Season
Black Hills: Dec 26 - Apr 30 (quota); Statewide: Dec 26 - Dec 25. Season closes when quota is reached or on the end date, whichever comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Regulations for hunting Cougar in South Dakota
Mountain lion hunting in South Dakota is managed by quota. The Black Hills season runs Dec 26-Apr 30 with a specific harvest quota, and a statewide season runs Dec 26-Dec 25. The season closes immediately when the quota is reached. A mountain lion license and habitat stamp are required. Successful hunters must present the carcass for inspection and tagging within 24 hours.
When is Cougar hunting season in South Dakota?
Black Hills: Dec 26 - Apr 30 (quota); Statewide: Dec 26 - Dec 25. Season closes when quota is reached or on the end date, whichever comes first.
What is the bag limit for Cougar in South Dakota?
1 mountain lion per season. Annual harvest quota set by GFP Commission. Season closes immediately when quota is met.
What's another name for Cougar?
Cougar is also known as Mountain lion, Puma, Panther in South Dakota.
References
| State | Category | Directory | Subcategory | Content | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| South Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Season Dates | Black Hills: Dec 26 - Apr 30 (quota); Statewide: Dec 26 - Dec 25. Season closes when quota is reached or on the end date | Link |
| South Dakota | Hunting | Regulations | Regulations | Mountain lion hunting in South Dakota is managed by quota. The Black Hills season runs Dec 26-Apr 30 with a specific har | Link |
