How to identify signs of a mountain lion's recent activity?

Identifying Mountain Lion Sign: Trees and Markings

When searching for mountain lion sign in Utah’s dense forests and scrublands, inspect trees for scratch marks. A mountain lion’s claws can leave behind a distinctive horizontal scratch, often 2-3 inches above the ground. Measure the height and orientation of the scratch to identify it as a mountain lion’s signature mark.

Scat and Other Signs

Mountain lion scat is usually 1.5 to 2.5 inches in length and has a strong, pungent smell. When encountering scat, take note of the location, as mountain lions tend to scat more frequently near trails and game paths. Also, keep an eye out for digging in underbrush, as mountain lions often scent-mark and hide their cache in these areas.

Observing for Patterns

To confirm recent activity, look for a pattern of signs in a specific area. Mountain lions often establish a home range and reuse the same pathways and resting sites. Look for multiple signs of scat, scratching, and digging within a small area, as this may indicate recent activity. Take note of the direction of the signs, as mountain lions often travel in a northeasterly direction through their territory.