Extinct Animal : Eastern Cougar

The cougar was once found over much of North America, including southern Canada from coast to coast. In the west it still occurs regularly, but the eastern cougar, which once ranged from the Carolinas north into Canada and west to the Great Plains is now protected as an endangered species.

Recent sightings in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, and the eastern United States indicate that the eastern cougar may be making a comeback. However, the availability of prey (mainly white-tailed deer) and protection from hunting do not seem to have been important factors in helping the animal re-establish itself.

The biggest obstacle to the survival of the eastern cougar may be the loss of undisturbed habitat.