Another Mountain Lion Sighting Reported In Iowa

As of 2022 the DNR has stated that there are possibly 12 separate mountain lions confirmed in Iowa based on staff reports and tangible evidence. After looking at the photo sent to me, I'd believe that thig is one of those 12. As of 2024 it is reported that Iowa is ranked 9th in the US for mountain lion population in 2024, with confirmed sightings.

Some people call these big cougars, other call them Mountain Lions. It appears that in most reports either name is used to describe these animals.

About Mountain Lions In Iowa

The big cats are not native to the state and are considered rare iowadnr.gov states,

Mountain lions have no legal wildlife status in
Iowa. That means that they can be taken and
possessed by anyone at anytime as long as legal
methods and means are used to take the animal.

The DNR's Clear Lake office receives an average of two to four reports of mountain lion sightings each week. Since 2010, there have been more than 2,000 reported sightings statewide

Wow that number of sightings is much higher than I thought. This sighting happened in late October on a trail cam.

The New Iowa Mountain Lion Sighting Photo

The other day a listener sent in this photo from late last year around October by one of their friends trail cams for hunting here in Iowa.

What do you think? That looks like a Mountain Lion to me. Let us know on our app.

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