Mountain lions, also known as cougars or pumas, are present in Iowa, but they do not maintain a resident or established breeding population. These large predators are considered occasional visitors, with individual animals traveling through the state. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) tracks their presence, confirming that any mountain lion in the state is a transient individual.
Current Presence and Confirmed Sightings
The status of the mountain lion in Iowa is one of sporadic presence rather than permanent residency. Since 1995, the Iowa DNR has tracked confirmed sightings using evidence like roadkill, verified photos, tracks, or animals that were shot or killed. Confirmed sightings have increased recently, with 12 in 2022 and 11 in 2023, though over 2,000 sightings are reported annually and require validation. The distinction between a temporary wanderer and a resident population is the absence of breeding females and den sites.
DNA testing indicates that most confirmed animals are young, 2-to-3-year-old males. While a few females have been documented, reproduction has not occurred in the state. The DNR maintains that Iowa’s landscape offers abundant deer as prey but lacks the large, continuous, undisturbed habitat required to support a self-sustaining population.
Migration Routes and Source Populations
The mountain lions that appear in Iowa are typically dispersing from established populations to the west. DNA evidence often matches the genetic profile of cougars found in the Black Hills of South Dakota, western Nebraska, and Wyoming. These young males are pushed out of their natal territories by older, dominant males and search for new, unoccupied areas.
Their long-distance movements follow a west-to-east trajectory, sometimes spanning hundreds of miles. They utilize natural travel corridors, such as wooded river systems and riparian areas, which provide cover and access to prey. The transient nature of these visits explains why the animals rarely settle; they are primarily seeking mates and territory, which Iowa does not consistently provide.
Distinguishing Mountain Lions From Other Iowa Wildlife
Given the rarity of a true mountain lion sighting, many reports are misidentifications of other large animals. The most telling characteristic is its massive, rope-like tail, which is long and cylindrical, measuring between 2.5 and 3 feet. In contrast, the native bobcat, though also a wild feline, has a very short, docked tail less than 10 inches long.
Mountain lions are significantly larger than any other wild cat in the state, with adult males weighing between 135 and 175 pounds. Their coat is a uniform tawny or light cinnamon color, giving them the scientific name Puma concolor. Large domestic dogs are often mistaken for mountain lions but lack the cat’s small head, massive shoulders, and heavy, non-tapering tail.
What to Do If You See a Mountain Lion
While mountain lion encounters are rare, knowing how to react ensures safety for both humans and the animal. The most important rule is never to run, as this can trigger the cat’s instinct to chase. Instead, face the animal, stand your ground, and immediately pick up small children or pets.
The goal is to convince the animal that you are not prey and may be a danger. Make yourself appear as large as possible by opening your jacket, waving your arms, and speaking loudly and firmly. If the mountain lion approaches, throw objects at it and fight back vigorously. Any sighting involving physical evidence, such as photos or tracks, should be reported to the Iowa Department of Natural Resources.