Video Footage by Wild Nature Media
The Cougar Fund was founded in 2001 by writer Cara Blessley Lowe and photographer Thomas D. Mangelsen after a firsthand experience observing a mother lion they named “Spirit” and her three cubs on the National Elk Refuge in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Speak up for cougars. Learn what is happening in your state and how you can help protect these incredible animals.
The Cougar Fund was founded to help ensure the conservation and protection of cougars throughout their range in the United States and the rest of the Western Hemisphere.
As an incorporated 501 (c) 3 nonprofit educational organization, The Cougar Fund is actively seeking donations, grants, and funding from individuals and private parties to support our programs.
The Cougar Fund protects the cougar – also known as a mountain lion, puma, and panther – and other carnivores throughout the Americas by educating children and adults on their value, and by monitoring state policies and advocating for management based on sound science, to assure a lasting place for these creatures.
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Penny2026-06-11 18:48:272026-06-11 19:44:43National Cougar Day: The Spirit of the Wild Still Walks Among Us.
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Penny2026-01-09 22:06:072026-01-11 12:26:57Update on the Wildlife Board meeting in Farmington Utah January 8th 2026
© Thomas D. Mangelsen
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Penny2025-02-16 14:22:002025-02-16 14:29:01A Victory for Lions. The Cougar Fund’s long serving Directors help defeat Wyoming’s notorious cougar bill
A demonstration of nature’s exquisite design.
Help protect this beautiful species.
Cougar conservation and management.