Population numbers have been reduced drastically due to encroachment and predator control programs. Inside one male's territory, there may be two or three female lions sharing the area. The ranges of male lions never overlap. Mountain lions are solitary and seldom come together. When they do, it is usually to mate.
Females mate every two years, with breeding taking place during any season.
The male plays no part in rearing of the young. Kittens have spots and are blind at birth. They can begin to play when they are 10 days old and will visit the mother's kill at six weeks. After two months, the family leaves the den and at six months the kittens lose their spots. The young can remain with the mother until 18 months of age, at which time they must find their own territory.