As our planet continues to heat up, conditions on Earth are becoming more unpredictable; shifting wildlife behaviors and pushing species closer to extinction. Learn how Defenders of Wildlife is working to better understand the ways climate change impacts species and what we’re doing to help. Visit defenders.org
Big Cat Facts: Cougar

The Cougar(Puma concolor), also known as Puma, Mountain Lion, or Panther is a big cat that is found in the Americas. The Cougar is classified in the order Carnivora, and the family Felidae.
Physical Characteristics
A Cougar’s head, ears, and muzzle are rounded. The tip of its tail, the backs of its ears, and the sides of the muzzle are black. The color of the body is mainly buffy gray to tan or cinnamon. A Cougar’s underside is pale buff or nearly white.
| Length | 1-2.8 m(3’3”-9’2”) |
| Shoulder Height | 60-90 cm(2′-2’11”) |
| Tail Length | 50-95 cm(1’8”-3’1”) |
| Weight | 34-120 kg(75-265 lbs.) |
Big Cat Facts: Cheetah

The Cheetah(Acinonyx jubatus) is a big cat that can be found in Africa, but can also be found in the Middle East. The Cheetah is the fastest land mammal on earth; it can run at speeds up to 98 km/h(61 mph). The Cheetah is classified in the order Carnivora, and the Family Felidae.
Cheetahs live in three main social groups:
- Females and their cubs
- Male “coalitions”
- Solitary males
Physical Characteristics
A Cheetah’s head is small and rounded, and its snout is short. There are black, tear-like stripes on a Cheetah’s face. The coat is usually tawny to creamy … Continue
