How To Call Mountain Lions

How to Call Mountain Lions: A Guide for Experienced Hunters and Researchers

Calling mountain lions, also known as cougars, pumas, or panthers, is a challenging and potentially dangerous endeavor. It's crucial to understand that this is not a recreational activity for the casual outdoorsman. This guide is intended for experienced hunters and researchers with appropriate licensing and permits, and a deep understanding of mountain lion behavior and safety protocols. Never attempt to call a mountain lion without extensive training and experience.

Understanding Mountain Lion Vocalizations

Mountain lions utilize a variety of vocalizations for communication, including:

• Screams: These are usually distress calls from kittens or a defensive response from adults. They are loud and piercing. Mimicking these effectively requires significant practice and a deep understanding of the nuances of their sound.
• Chirps and Meows: These softer calls are used for communication within a family group. Successfully imitating these subtle sounds can be incredibly effective but requires exceptional skill.
• Hisses and Growls: These are aggressive vocalizations, usually used as warnings or during territorial disputes. Using these calls requires caution and precise understanding of the context.

Choosing the Right Calling Techniques and Equipment

Effectively calling mountain lions requires more than just mimicking sounds; it involves understanding their behavior and employing the right strategy. This includes:

Selecting the right equipment:

• Mouth Calls: While challenging to master, mouth calls offer natural sound and require less equipment.
• Electronic Calls: These offer a wider range of sounds and can be more easily controlled but might be less effective depending on their realism.
• Predator Calls: Specialized calls exist that combine different sounds to simulate prey or distressed animals.

Implementing the right strategy:

• Location, Location, Location: Choosing the right location is key. Focus on areas known to have mountain lion activity, considering terrain, wind direction, and potential cover.
• Timing: Consider the time of day and season. Mountain lion activity can vary significantly throughout the year and during different hours.
• Patience: Calling mountain lions is a game of patience. Be prepared to wait for extended periods without hearing a response.

Safety Precautions: Absolutely Essential

Calling mountain lions is inherently risky. Always prioritize safety:

• Hunt with an experienced partner: Never attempt to call mountain lions alone. Having a partner significantly increases safety.
• Carry appropriate weaponry: Be prepared to defend yourself effectively.
• Wear appropriate clothing: Camouflage clothing is crucial, but it shouldn't impair your movement or ability to quickly react.
• Be aware of your surroundings: Constantly scan your surroundings for any signs of mountain lion activity.
• Have an escape plan: Know your escape routes and how to react if you encounter a mountain lion.
• Know the local regulations: Ensure you have the necessary licenses and permits.

Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount. Calling mountain lions should only be done by experienced individuals with proper licenses for hunting or research purposes. Respecting the animals' territory and safety should always be the top priority. Never call mountain lions for sport or entertainment.

Conclusion

Calling mountain lions is a complex and risky undertaking that demands significant skill, experience, and unwavering commitment to safety and ethics. This guide only provides a basic overview. It is crucial to seek advanced training from experts before attempting any such activity. Remember, responsible and ethical interaction with wildlife is paramount.