Could cougars once again roam the forests of the Northeast? Join Emily Carrollo, Project Coordinator for the Cougar Research Collaborative at Panthera, for a fascinating look at the possibility of restoring cougars to their historic range in the eastern United States.
Date: October 3, 2026
Time: 12:00 PM–1:30 PM
Location: Catskills Visitor Center
Also known as mountain lions, pumas, catamounts, and by many other names, cougars once inhabited much of eastern North America. During this presentation, Emily will introduce participants to cougar biology and ecology and explore what reintroduction to the Northeast could look like.
Drawing on research conducted by the Cougar Research Collaborative, Emily will discuss findings that suggest restoring cougars to the region may not be as far-fetched as it sounds. She'll also explore why people may want to see this native carnivore return to northeastern forests, including what their presence could mean for the Catskills.
The presentation will offer an opportunity to learn more about these fascinating animals and consider a big question for the future of our region: Could cougars have a place in the Catskills once again?
This is a free event with a suggested donation of $10.
Please Note: Pets are not permitted at Catskill Center programs and events with the exception of trained service animals assisting their handlers.
Photo Credit: Mark Elbroch
About Emily Carrollo
Emily Carrollo is the Project Coordinator for the Cougar Research Collaborative at Panthera, where her work focuses on the potential restoration of pumas to their historic range in the eastern United States, particularly the Northeast.
Prior to this role, Emily served as the statewide Black Bear Program Biologist for the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Her career has included work with multiple carnivore species across several states and internationally in South Africa. She earned her undergraduate degree in Environmental Science from the University of Virginia and her master’s degree in Wildlife and Fisheries Science from Penn State.
If you have any questions please email Diana, our Communications and Programming Coordinator, at drichards@catskillcenter.org