Common Name: Mountain Lion, Puma, Cougar, Panther
Scientific Name: Puma concolor
Gender: Male
Birth Date: April 1, 1995
History: Tonka arrived at Animal Ark on March 9, 1999. He was trained for studio work, films, and magic acts. As he matured, a dislike for new environments and feelings of insecurity developed. He seemed to not have the personality for this type of atmosphere. Sometimes animals in these situations are euthanized when no longer workable or needed. We respect the fact that Tonka’s owner did not consider this as an option. Because of this mountain lion’s socialization to people, he relies heavily on humans to meet all of his needs while in captivity.

Common Name: Mountain lion, puma, cougar, panther
Scientific Name: Puma concolor
Gender: Male
Birth Date: June, 2007
History: On February 5, 2008, this 7 month old mountain lion was hit by a car on Kingsbury Grade near Lake Tahoe while lying on the road after possibly being hit by an earlier passing vehicle. As the concerned driver turned around to come back and check on the animal, a passing snowplow pulled up to keep the kitten from being hit yet again. Within minutes Carl Lackey, a Nevada Department of Wildlife biologist, who happened to be driving by, was also on the scene. The animal was in shock but still alive. After a thorough exam by Dr. Nelson a serious fracture of the femur and some pelvic injuries were revealed. Dr. Pelsue at Veterinary Specialists of Nevada was contacted and Dr. Dearmin agreed to perform the necessary orthopedic surgery. During the operation an abscess and possible infection were also identified. The kitten arrived at Animal Ark on February 8. All that we could do is pray, offer food, water and a comfortable environment. After 2 days he began to eat and mobility quickly returned. Unfortunately there was no way to reunite this young cougar with his mother who would teach him how to live and hunt in the wild, so he joins the Ark as an ambassador for the mountain lion species, the largest carnivore in Nevada. The name Milagro, which is Spanish for Miracle, was bestowed upon him because many were the miracles that led to his survival. We thank each of the people above for giving “Milo” a second chance.