Based on 5,092 research-grade iNaturalist observations in California, Mountain Lion is most often recorded in January; in California it behaves like a year-round resident. It ranks #22 among mammals recorded in the state in our data.
Puma concolor
Mountain Lion in California by month
Bars show research-grade observations per month. They mix true seasonality with how often people are outdoors, so treat small numbers with caution.
Also seen in California in January
Coyote
California Ground Squirrel
Eastern Fox Squirrel
Mule Deer
California Sea Lion
Northern Elephant Seal
Bobcat
Common Raccoon
Places to look in California
Botanical GardenThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
State ParkHearst Castle
Botanical GardenSan Francisco Botanical Garden
State ParkAnza-Borrego Desert State Park
National ForestAngeles National Forest
National ForestSequoia National Forest
FAQ
When does Mountain Lion appear in California?
Mainly December–November, with the most records in January.
How common is Mountain Lion in California?
It ranks #22 by number of iNaturalist observations among mammals in California (5,092 records in our sample).