A mountain lion (also called a puma or panther) is one of the most striking and mysterious animals that you are likely to see in nature. These big cats are feared and revered by many, and they are known for their power, strength, and beauty. However, they also have a reputation for being vicious killers. The truth is that, just like any other animal, they are very complex creatures with a range of emotions and needs.

Unlike the other large cats, lions do not need to kill prey to survive. In fact, they are among the most sedentary of all animals and spend most of their time sleeping and resting. They typically nap for 16-20 hours a day, and can be seen lying in the shade of a tree or on rocky areas.

Although lions can live in a variety of biomes, including montane coniferous forests, lowland tropical forests, and grasslands, they prefer to live near water sources and are typically found in the wilds of Africa and India. These areas tend to be scorching hot, and lions need the cooler shade of a tree or a rock cover to sleep and cool off.

While they are often seen moving during the day, lions are crepuscular and nocturnal; they are most active at dawn and dusk. During the night, they will find an area of shelter that provides comfort and protection from predators and other dangers, such as an unsecure cave or abandoned den.