The puma, a large cat native to the Americas, is the most widely distributed wild, terrestrial mammal in that region. It holds the Guinness world record for the animal with the greatest number of names, with over 40 in English alone, such as cougar, panther, and mountain lion.

Pumas can be found in most American habitat types, especially habitats with dense underbrush, and rocky areas for stalking, but can also be found in open areas. Pumas can live in all forest types, lowland and mountainous deserts, as well as in open areas that have little vegetation up to an elevation of 5,800 m.

Shown here (from top) are two cubs running over shallow water that has frozen over, a stalking puma, and lastly a puma looking regal at night in the Andes.