5 Ways to Know a Mountain Lion Really is Near You in Missouri

Mountain lions are not native to Missouri, but the Department of Conservation has confirmed hundreds of sightings have indeed happened. How can you know if you're seeing signs of a mountain lion in Missouri or something else? There are 5 key things to look (and listen) for.

You might recall that I shared a somewhat controversial video that a farmer near Edgewood, Missouri captured a few days ago where he believed he spotted a young mountain lion on the prowl. Many debated whether he really saw a young mountain lion or if it was a different creature.

There are 5 ways you can know if you are dealing with a real mountain lion nearby your Missouri place or if it's something else.

Mountain Lion Scat

As this YouTuber shows, there are specific types of scat that are specific to mountain lions that help you identify if you have one of these big cats in your neck of the woods.

Mountain Lion Tracks

A mountain lion track is about 2 inches by 4 inches and has no nail tracks like you'd see in a dog. If the toes are level, it's a dog track. If one toe protrudes above the others, it's a cat.

There are 3 other things to look for shared by Hiking Guy which includes the carcass of large prey or large scratches on trees. In some parts of Missouri, those signs could also mean a black bear is nearby. Either way, you don't want to be near either apex predator.

Finally, you need to listen for mountain lion vocalizations. If you hear a loud scream, purr or hiss, you should go elsewhere.

As the Missouri Department of Conservation says, mountain lions are not common creatures to come across in the Show Me State. There are many false sightings and signs, but that doesn't mean it can't happen. Best to know what to look for so you can understand when you may be in mountain lion hunting territory.