Primary Prey:
* Deer: White-tailed deer, mule deer, and elk are the most common prey for cougars, particularly in areas where these ungulates are abundant.
* Small mammals: Cougars also prey on smaller mammals like rabbits, squirrels, and rodents.
Secondary Prey:
* Livestock: In areas with livestock, cougars can prey on cattle, sheep, and goats.
* Other Carnivores: Occasionally, cougars have been known to hunt coyotes, foxes, and even other cougars.
* Birds: They might catch birds, especially ground-dwelling birds, but this is not a primary food source.
Other Factors:
* Size: Cougars primarily target prey they can overpower, with deer and elk being their preferred size.
* Availability: The availability of prey in a particular region influences what a cougar will hunt.
* Competition: Competition with other predators, such as wolves and bears, can affect cougar hunting behavior.
Interesting Note: Cougars are incredibly adaptable hunters and have been known to hunt in a variety of ways, from ambushes to chases. They are also very good at climbing trees and using their agility to their advantage.
Remember, while cougars are apex predators, they play an important role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems.