“Stay Back”: Mountain Lion Stalks Hunter, Saved by Gun

With a mountain lion inches away, an elk hunter in Idaho was left with no choice: fire warning shots. Fortunately, neither were harmed and judging by hunter’s commentary, “stay back”, it was triggered by fear. This comes as no surprise when you watch the video.

Before resorting to plan b, the feline is seen continuously stalking the huntsman, who seems to be hoping the big cat will eventually trot off into the distance. However, the mountain lion appears persistent.

Watch This Event Occur Here

The Elusive Mountain Lion

The mountain lion, also known as a cougar or puma, is a highly adaptive and stealthy predator native to the Americas. With its lithe and muscular physique, it’s capable of navigating diverse terrains, from dense forests to arid deserts, making it one of the most widespread large cats in the Western Hemisphere.

Range and Habitat

Mountain lions boast a vast geographical range, inhabiting regions from the Yukon in Canada to the southern tip of South America. Their ability to thrive in diverse ecosystems has earned them the title of a “generalist” species. In North America, their presence is particularly notable in the western United States and parts of Canada, where their elusive nature often leads to them being dubbed “ghost cats.

These solitary creatures require large territories for hunting and can be found in a variety of environments, including mountains, forests, and grasslands. They are highly adaptable and can coexist with human populations, occasionally venturing into suburban areas in their relentless pursuit of prey.

Diet and Hunting Techniques

Mountain lions are carnivorous predators with a broad diet, feeding on deer, elk, bighorn sheep, and smaller mammals like raccoons and rabbits. Despite their name, they do not limit themselves to mountainous regions but are equally adept in lowland areas.

Portrait of a cougar, mountain lion, puma, panther, striking a pose on a fallen tree, Winter scene in the woods, wildlife America. Image: Pixabay

Known for their stealth and patience, mountain lions are ambush predators. They rely on the element of surprise and their powerful hind limbs to pounce on unsuspecting prey. Their keen senses, including exceptional eyesight and acute hearing, contribute to their prowess as efficient hunters, allowing them to navigate their territories with precision.

Is Elk Hunting Legal in Idaho?

A close up shot of a mountain lion (Puma concolor) laying down in the grass. Image: Depositphotos.

Elk hunting is legal in Idaho, where it serves as a popular and regulated outdoor activity. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game (IDFG) establishes specific hunting seasons, quotas, and guidelines to maintain sustainable elk populations. Hunters must obtain appropriate licenses and adhere to stringent regulations, ensuring ethical and responsible hunting practices. The state’s commitment to conservation and wildlife management allows individuals to engage in elk hunting as part of Idaho’s rich outdoor heritage while prioritizing the long-term health of elk populations and their ecosystems.

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Freddie Hiney

Author at Animals Around The Globe

Freddie is a writer and digital marketing professional with a First-Class Honours degree in Business and Management. Influenced by his father, an internationally published journalist, and author, Freddie's love for writing is deeply ingrained. He appreciates thought-provoking, clear, raw, and honest writing, always infused with hope.

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