Mountain lions, also known as pumas or cougars, are large wild cats found primarily in the Americas. In some regions they are also called panthers, catamounts, or mountain cats. The name "lion" refers to their usual tan or yellow-brown coloring and the similar shape of their head and body to that of lions. However, they are not closely related to the African lion. In South America, they may also be known as jaguars or yaguaretes, which are actually a different species from the North American mountain lion. Despite the varying names, the mountain lion remains an elusive and powerful predator in the wilderness.