Puma / Mountain Lion
Puma concolor
The second-largest feline in Panama and the most widely distributed in the Americas. Stealthy, solitary, and crepuscular, the puma is the ghost hunter of Panama's forests.
The puma (Puma concolor), also known as the mountain lion or cougar, is the second-largest feline in Panama after the jaguar. Sleek and muscular, its uniform coat ranges from tawny to silvery gray.
The puma is an opportunistic, generalist predator. In Panama's forests, its diet includes agoutis, peccaries, and sloths. It is a solitary, territorial hunter with home ranges spanning hundreds of square kilometers.
Though inhabiting virtually all of Panama, the puma is exceptionally difficult to spot. Protected areas such as Darién National Park, La Amistad, and Chagres harbor healthy populations.
Warning
Puma attacks on humans are extremely rare. If you encounter one, do not run: maintain eye contact, make yourself look larger, and back away slowly. Avoid hiking alone at dawn or dusk in remote areas.
Habitat
Extremely adaptable: tropical wet and dry forests, cloud forests, savannas, and mountainous areas from sea level to 3,500 meters throughout Panamanian territory.