The "Big Picture"

The map below presents all confirmations and probables (very strong evidence) documented by ECN to date. It provides an excellent illustration of the increasing phenomenon of verified cougar presence in the eastern half of North America.

Cougar Known Range and Confirmations

Green = established populations

Blue = confirmation beyond reasonable doubt

Red = probable (very strong evidence)

Yellow = claimed populations awaiting verification

Conclusions to Date

Western cougar populations have been increasing since the 1960s, largely due to increased legal protection for the cats and to the growth and expansion of prey populations. Dr. Maurice Hornocker, a prominent cougar expert, was recently quoted as saying "There may now be more mountain lions in the West than there were before European settlement." The evidence that ECN has collected to date suggests that the species is beginning to re-colonize several of the adjacent prairie states, and possibly even some of the Midwestern and Southeastern states as well. The origin of cougars found further east is less clear. Detailed analysis and documentation for all of these events can be obtained from our Confirmations page.

SOURCE :  http://www.easterncougarnet.org/Conclusions.htm