don't know what part of the east you're from but we got cougars/mountain lions here ... from GA to VAStubbee wrote:
WOW. Being from the east, we don't have anything like this here. Just wolves, coyotes, lynx and bear.Cougars have large paws and proportionally the largest hind legs in the cat family.[19] This physique allows it great leaping and short-sprint ability. An exceptional vertical leap of 5.4 m (18 ft) is reported for the cougar.[27] Horizontal jumping capability from standing position is suggested anywhere from 6 to 12 m (20 to 40 ft). The cougar can run as fast as 55 to 72 km/h (35 to 45 mi/h),[28] but is best adapted for short, powerful sprints rather than long chases. It is adept at climbing, which allows it to evade canine competitors. Although it is not strongly associated with water, it can swim.
I live right next to the Blue Ridge Parkway and occasionly I can hear one up in the mountain