What is the Difference Between Puma and Cougar?

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The terms "puma" and "cougar" refer to the same species of cat, Puma concolor, which is the largest of the "small cats". The difference between the two names is mainly due to their usage in different regions. Here are the key points:

  • Puma is generally used to refer to cats in Latin America, while cougar is a North American term.
  • Both names describe the same species, and there is no taxonomic difference between them.
  • Puma concolor is known by various names throughout its range, which spans 22 countries from southern Alaska to the tip of Tierra del Fuego.

In summary, the main difference between pumas and cougars is the regional preference for the terms, with "puma" being used more often in Latin America and "cougar" in North America. However, these terms describe the same species, Puma concolor, which is found in a wide variety of habitats throughout the Americas.

Comparative Table: Puma vs Cougar

Cougars and pumas are the same animal, with the scientific name Puma concolor. They are large cats native to the Americas, found in a variety of habitats, from mountains to deserts. Here is a table summarizing some key features of pumas and cougars:

Feature Puma/Cougar
Scientific Name Puma concolor
Habitat Americas (mountains, deserts, etc.)
Diet Carnivorous
Size Up to 2 meters long
Weight Up to 72 kg
Speed Up to 80 km/h
Lifespan Up to 20 years

In the table provided, I would classify the subject as a "Puma" if they are between the ages of 30-39. It is essential to remember that this classification is based on a woman's age and is not related to the animal itself.