Here is a no-nonsence factual website on cougars/panthers if you are interested.

http://www.easterncougarnet.org

The big cats are definately expanding their range from west to east across the central part of the Country. Even here in Florida where the resident panther population was in dangerous decline, an infusion of Texas cougar genes has invigorated the population significantly and the cats are now moving north out of the traditional range in southwest Florida. Several factors are probably at play in this increase, and an increase in deer and hog populations is surly a player. Our black bear population is expanding rapidly also, and the gator numbers are unbelievable. Don't think that you are at the top of the food chain in Florida!