Mountain lion paw print

Description:

In Utah mountain lions are found distrubuted throughout the state except in barron salt flats west of the Great Salt Lake. Although mountain lions are found throughout the state and are "common" in some areas, they are extremely secretive and thus rarely seen. Mountain lions vary considerably in size and weight. Males may attain a length of 9 feet, including a tail with is about one third of its totally body lenght, and may weigh 160 pounds. Larger males may occasionally weigh as much as 200 pounds. Female mountain lions generally weigh between 100 to 120 pounds and measure nearly 7 feet in length. It is often difficult to differentiate between male and female lions. Mountain lions have several physical features which make them highly specialized predators. Their highly developed sight is extremely critical for hunting success, and it included both diurnal and nocturnal vision. They also have excellent depth perception which enable them to attack their prey with extreme accuracy. Mountain lions ahve short, powerful jaws which are capable of crushing the neck of thier prey in a single bite. In Utah mule deer make up over 80% of the mountain lions' diet. Mountain lions will also eat rabbits and hares, rodents (especially porcupines), elk, bobcats, coyotes and, occasionally, livestock. Lions will also eat some grasses.

Notes:

went backpacking anad came across this rather fresh paw print. Didnt manage to see the real deal but was excited to know that they were in the area