Cougars

Cougars

Prepare to meet the mountain’s top predator. We are home to male ‘Odin’ and his sister ‘Freya’.

A cougar by any name is an incredible hunter

Holding the Guiness World Record for being the animal with the most names (40 different names), you will know a cougar when you see one by its solidly coloured coat. Outside of humans, cougars have the widest range of any land mammal in the Western hemisphere, and their adaptations have allowed them to succeed in terrains as different as mountains and swamps. Cougars are known for being excellent hunters, silently stalking their prey before making their ambush.

 

  • IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (at relatively low risk of extinction)
  • Type: Mammal
  • Habitat: Mountainous regions and swamps across North America
  • Diet: Carnivore – deer, sheep, and coyotes
  • Size: 3.25 to 5.25 tall; 23.5- to 33.5-inch-long tail
  • Weight: 136 pounds
Cougar Cougars Cougars
Cougar

Care & Conservation

How we care for them

At the Wilder Institute/Calgary Zoo, we are bringing together our passion for plants and animals with our dedication to taking and inspiring action to sustain wildlife and wild places.
Learn More

facts about our animals

Fun Facts about Cougars

Cougars hunt at dusk and dawn.

They have a poor sense of smell, but excellent vision and hearing.

Cougars are ready to set out on their own at just 18 months old.

To better camouflage, a cougar is born with spots that fade as it grows older.

A cougar’s back legs are so strong that it can leap 40 feet horizontally or 18 feet vertically in a single jump.

Cougars do not roar, but females have a loud scream which is believed to be used to attract a mate.

Donate

How you can help

Your donation makes a world of difference. With support for animal care, conservation programs, and education, you’re making the world wilder.

Meet Our Animals

Wild Canada

Moose

Wild Canada

Moose

Learn More
Grizzly Bear

Wild Canada

Grizzly Bears

Learn More
Polar bear

Wild Canada

Polar Bears

Learn More
Grey Wolves

Plan Your Visit

Get close to wildlife

It’s time to make some memories. Here’s everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable day at the zoo.