Much has been written recently about the rise of “cougars” (sexually assertive, mature single women) in western societies. Many people seem to think that this boom is not real but merely a silly craze, a marketing ploy, or just an invention of the media. But it does seem to be a genuine phenomenon, particularly in Australia.

Census figures from the last quarter century show a definite rise in the proportion of single women aged between 40 and 54. For example, back in 1986 these women constituted 19 percent of that age group. But in 2006, they accounted for 27 percent of it. There are now many more women in this age group than there are men.

So, they definitely do exist and in quite large numbers. Combine this with the fact that they are mostly financially independent – and enjoy going out to clubs, pubs and singles events – and … READ MORE ...