Cougars symbolize protection, agility, adaptability, secrecy, beauty and wealth. Also known as mountain lions, pumas or panthers, these majestic creatures are the subjects of mythologies in the various cultures found within the vast regions they reside.
Look no further than Utah native Kyle Burgess' viral video of his run in with a mother cougar in Provo Canyon to see the species' fiercely protective nature. Cougars serve as a reminder for us to never be passive when it comes to protecting those we love and hold dear - this can extend from family and friends to our communities and colleagues or even causes we care about.
The mountain lion is the hiker, trail runner, and rock climber of the animal kingdom. With incredible abilities of scaling steep rock faces, jumping as high as 18 feet, and leaping distances of 40 feet, they are clear symbols of agility. They remind us to be quick on our feet both literally and figuratively. Instead of being rigid, we should strive to be flexible in mind and body. This doesn't mean being weak - the cougar is anything but weak. It means to be ready to pounce on whatever comes our way - whether it's challenges or opportunities.
They inhabit a variety of environments, from arid deserts to forests and high mountain ranges. Although their diet primarily consists of ungulates such as deer and elk, they will also eat small animals like rabbits and mice - even insects! These abilities in adaptability remind us of how important it is to be willing to adapt and try new things.
Native Americans say the mountain lion walks in moccasins that no one can hear. Between stalking their prey silently and their art of camouflage, they encourage an importance of patience, privacy and discretion.
With their golden-green eyes and tawny coats, these big cats both mesmerize and terrify us. Their beauty extending from their looks to their movements (agile, strong, and graceful) reminds us that true beauty goes beyond the superficial. It's also how we move, how we conduct ourselves, and in the actions we take.
In South America, the Quechua People believe pumas are positive omen for wealth. In North America, hunters have learned good hunting spots and hunting skills from these lions. Therefore, the Indigenous Peoples of the Americas view the mountain lion as a symbol of wealth and prosperity.
