The cougar, also known as mountain lion, puma, catamount, ghost cat, and panther, is perhaps the rarest large mammal at home in Minnesota.  It was debated for many years whether there actually were any cougar left in Minnesota, but recently there have been many confirmations.  The cougar is a protected species in Minnesota, and federally since 1973, meaning that it cannot be hunted or trapped. It is unknown how many cougar sightings are of escaped or released pet cougars, which people can buy from game farms and legally own.  The cougar is very secretive and extremely rare.

Cougars are tawny (tan, tan-orange), with a white muzzle and chest.  Adult cats range from 6-9 ft, including their thick rope like tail, and weigh up to 200 lbs.  Cougars can live up to 20 years, but are considered old at 8-12 years.