Mountain Lions in California: Where They Live (Almost Everywhere)

Mountain lions (cougars, pumas) inhabit most of California — from coastal ranges to Sierra Nevada, Cascades, and Transverse Ranges.

Range

• Present: North Coast, Klamath, Cascades, Sierra Nevada, Central Coast, Santa Cruz Mts, Transverse Ranges, Peninsular Ranges, Modoc Plateau.
• Absent / Rare: Central Valley (agriculture, no cover), Sonoran Desert (SE corner — too arid), dense urban cores (SF, LA basin — but urban edges like Santa Monica Mts, Verdugos, Chino Hills have residents).

Habitat Preferences

• Deer-rich areas (primary prey)
• Rugged terrain, rock outcrops, dense brush
• Elevation: sea level to 10,000+ ft
• Home range: males 100–300 sq mi; females 40–100 sq mi

Population

Estimated 4,000–6,000 statewide (CDFW). Stable but fragmented by highways (101, 15, 5, 80). Wildlife crossings (Wallis Annenberg, Liberty Canyon) underway.

Coexistence Tips

• Don't feed deer (attracts lions).
• Secure pets/livestock at night.
• Hike in groups; keep children close.
• If encountered: stand tall, make noise, back away — never run.
• Report sightings: wildlife.ca.gov / local CDFW.

Mountain lions are a keystone species and a symbol of California's wild heritage — increasingly navigating a human-dominated landscape.