There are 31 recorded sightings of Mountain Lion in South Dakota, with 1 observations documented in the past 12 months. Local sightings are most frequently reported in March through June.
When to See Mountain Lion in South Dakota
Most often reported in March through June.
| Month | Recorded Sightings | Peak Month |
|---|---|---|
| January | 2 | No |
| February | 0 | No |
| March | 2 | Yes |
| April | 5 | Yes |
| May | 14 | Yes |
| June | 3 | Yes |
| July | 0 | No |
| August | 0 | No |
| September | 0 | No |
| October | 1 | No |
| November | 0 | No |
| December | 1 | No |
Compared With Other Regions
Explore how Mountain Lion sightings in South Dakota 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 South Dakota
Track Mountain Lion in South Dakota
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Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to see a Mountain Lion in South Dakota?
Mountain Lion is most often reported in South Dakota in March through June, 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 South Dakota?
There are 31 documented Mountain Lion records in South Dakota. 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 South Dakota?
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 South Dakota.