There is no question about it. Cougars are not only being seen in eastern North America, some are attempting to recolonize their former habitats. Where once it was flatly dismissed as an impossibility in the so-called “developed” east, scientists have now documented cougar disbursals and even occupancy of a growing list of eastern states and provinces. Join us for a magnificently illustrated introduction to cougar biology and ecology in the broad diversity of habitats where Sue has studied them, from Alberta to the Arizona/Mexico border. We will also get the low-down regarding the latest confirmations of cougars in the east, including the recently documented suitability of a substantial amount of wild habitats from Manitoba to Louisiana and Maine to Georgia. It is only a matter of time!
This program can be combined with a group hike on the following day for a discounted fee for both events. Presentation only: members; $15, nonmembers $20. Combined presentation and hike: members $35; nonmembers $45. Suitable for 6th grade through adult, $5 reduction in fees for children under 18. Advance registration required. To register, call 603-763-4789 ext. 3. Meets at the Gatehouse.
About the presenter. Sue Morse, the founder of Keeping Track®, is highly regarded as an expert in natural history and one of the top wildlife trackers in North America. Since 1977, she has been monitoring wildlife, with an emphasis on documenting the presence and habitat requirements of bobcat, black bear, Canada lynx and cougar. She manages her own forestry consulting business, writes a regular column for Northern Woodlands magazine, and illustrates her work with her stunning wildlife photography. She is the author and primary photographer for A Guide to Recognizing the Florida Panther, Its Tracks and Sign. Among Sue’s many awards is the Environmental Leader Award from Unity College. She has also won the Franklin Fairbanks Award for lifelong work enriching the awareness and understanding of the natural world among New England residents. Sue has been featured on National Public Radio’s “Morning Edition” and in numerous magazines such as Adirondack Life, Amicus Journal, Audubon, Forest, Nature Conservancy, Ranger Rick, Smithsonian, Vermont, and Wild Earth. Sue lives in Jericho, Vermont.