Meet Our Mountain Lions

Mountain lions are powerful, adaptable cats known by many names, including cougars, pumas and catamounts. At Zoo New York, guests can connect with these remarkable animals while learning why responsible wildlife conservation and lifelong care matter. 

Ninja is Zoo New York’s senior mountain lion and a longtime resident of the Bob Johnson Mountain Lion Habitat. Through the years, Ninja has helped thousands of guests learn more about mountain lions, their behaviors and the challenges facing wildlife.

Clover was rescued in California after being found severely underweight and in need of urgent care. She received treatment and rehabilitation at Oakland Zoo, where she regained her health and strength.

Now at Zoo New York, Clover is beginning a new chapter alongside Rain while continuing to grow, explore and build trust with her animal care team.

Rain was rescued in Washington after being found near her deceased mother. Without her mother to teach her how to hunt and survive independently, Rain could not safely return to the wild.

Rain has since found a permanent home at Zoo New York, where she receives individualized care, enrichment and opportunities to develop at her own pace.

Young mountain lions depend on their mothers to learn essential survival skills, including hunting, finding shelter and avoiding danger. When cubs are orphaned too early, wildlife professionals must determine whether rehabilitation and release are possible.

For Clover and Rain, returning to the wild was not considered safe. Their stories help guests understand both the challenges wild animals face and the importance of responsible rescue, rehabilitation and lifelong care.