There are 4,314 recorded sightings of Mountain Lion in California, with 363 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in January through April.
When to See Mountain Lion in California
Most often reported in January through April.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 498 | Yes |
| February | 386 | Yes |
| March | 378 | Yes |
| April | 385 | Yes |
| May | 310 | No |
| June | 0 | No |
| July | 0 | No |
| August | 340 | No |
| September | 350 | No |
| October | 408 | No |
| November | 339 | No |
| December | 338 | No |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Mountain Lion sightings in California compare to other North American hubs:
A large, tawny cat with a plain coat, a pale belly, a long thick tail with a dark tip and a small head. It has the widest range of any wild land mammal in the Americas, from the Yukon to the southern Andes, living in forests, mountains and deserts. It is solitary and secretive. Look for tracks showing four toes without claws, and for deer carcasses covered with debris.
Other Wildlife to Look for in California
Track Mountain Lion in California
See where Mountain Lion was reported near you — get alerts when wildlife is spotted nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Mountain Lion in California?
Mountain Lion is most often reported in California in January through April, based on GBIF records. Reports partly reflect when more people are outdoors, so sightings in other months are possible.
Where can I see a Mountain Lion in California?
There are 4,314 documented Mountain Lion records in California. Parks, refuges and protected areas with suitable habitat are the best places to start; the charts above show when it's reported most.
How can I find Mountain Lion sightings near me in California?
Use the WildMap app on iOS to see recent reports within 100 km from the past 7 days for free (WildMap Pro: 200 km and 30 days), and turn on alerts for sightings near you in California.