Have you ever been out on a hike and heard what sounded like a bird chirping, only to wonder if something else was making the noise? It turns out that some mountain lions (also called cougars or pumas) can produce surprisingly bird-like sounds — especially short chirps and high-pitched calls used in communication.
Why Mountain Lions Chirp
Mountain lions don’t just growl or scream — they use a range of vocalizations to communicate with one another.
Among these are:
- Chirps — short, high-pitched sounds used between mothers and cubs or to locate another lion
- Whistles — clear, bird-like notes that can carry long distances
- Growls, hisses, and screams — deeper calls associated with defense or mating
These noises can sound eerily similar to bird calls, especially when you hear them unexpectedly on a trail.
Watch and Listen
Below is trail camera footage of wild mountain lions making these unusual calls, so you can hear for yourself what sounds might not be birds:
So Is It a Bird… or a Big Cat?
Many hikers assume that every chirp in the woods belongs to a bird. But because mountain lions can mimic high-pitched noises, it’s worth considering where the sound came from, your surroundings, and whether you see signs of big cat activity nearby.
That said, most everyday bird noises are still birds — mountain lion chirps are relatively rare and usually only heard in actual cougar habitat.
Tips for Outdoor Safety
If you do suspect you’re hearing a mountain lion, here are a few tips based on guidelines from the U.S. National Park Service:
- Stay calm and alert
- Make yourself appear larger (raise arms, open jacket)
- Don’t run — mountain lions chase motion
- Back away slowly while facing the animal
- Make noise and throw small objects if it approaches
Additional recommendations include not hiking alone, keeping children close, and avoiding crouching or bending over, as it may make you resemble prey. For more details, visit the NPS Mountain Lion Safety page.
These are general guidelines recommended for big cat encounters.
Final Thought
Nature is full of surprises, and the sounds you hear on the trail can sometimes be as fascinating as what you see. Whether it’s a tiny bird or a stealthy mountain lion, paying attention to animal sounds can deepen your connection to the wild — just be aware and prepared.