Rookery Bay Hosts Film Screening of Guardians of Yellowstone

The Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center auditorium played host to staff, volunteers and partners for a special screening of Guardians of Yellowstone: The Yellowstone Cougar Project. The documentary highlights more than 35 years of groundbreaking wildlife research in Yellowstone National Park.   

While the film focuses on mountain lions in the American West, its message resonated strongly with those who work and volunteer at Rookery Bay. Long-term scientific research provides the foundation for effective conservation, helping resource managers better understand wildlife populations, ecosystem health and the challenges facing natural areas. Whether studying cougars in Yellowstone or estuaries in Southwest Florida, science plays a critical role in protecting natural resources for future generations.  

The film follows one of the nation's longest-running studies of wild cougars. Through stunning visuals and intimate field footage, viewers are introduced to the dedicated biologists who have spent decades studying these elusive apex predators and the important role they play in maintaining healthy ecosystems   

The screening also provided an opportunity for Rookery Bay staff, Friends of Rookery Bay staff, volunteers and interns to come together, reflect on the importance of conservation research and celebrate the dedication of scientists whose work often takes place behind the scenes but has lasting impacts on wildlife management and environmental stewardship.   

Guardians of Yellowstone: The Yellowstone Cougar Project is available to stream on the PBS app.