Pumas, also referred to as mountain lions or cougars, are remarkable apex predators that play a crucial role in their ecosystems. Unfortunately, their attempts to adapt to human-dominated environments often lead to dangerous encounters with people, resulting in harm or even death for these majestic animals. Conflict arises frequently, as urbanization encroaches upon their natural habitats.

Understanding Puma Behavior

Personal encounters with pumas reveal their elusive nature. Despite their fearsome reputation, most pumas tend to avoid human contact. An anecdote illustrates this: a young male puma, after having preyed upon a deer, faced imminent danger from humans wanting to ‘dispose’ of him. The community, recognizing the fear in the cat, chose to protect it, resulting in the puma safely leaving the area two days later.

The Story of C-8: Tales of the Urban Wild

In the graphic novel Tales of the Urban Wild: A Puma’s Journey, conservation scientist Tiffany Yap collaborates with illustrator Meital Smith to highlight the struggles faced by pumas like C-8 in urban settings. Through a combination of engaging storytelling and scientific insight, they aim to raise awareness about the threats these animals encounter.

Conservation Through Education

Yap, working with the Center for Biological Diversity, advocates for the protection of California’s mountain lions. She notes the multitude of dangers these animals face, including:

• Vehicle collisions
• Effects of rat poisons
• Retaliation for predation on livestock
• Increased risk of wildfires

This graphic novel serves as a tool to educate a broader audience about these challenges and inspire solutions for coexistence.

A Unique Approach to Wildlife Conservation

Yap expresses pride in the novel’s approach, emphasizing its blend of scientific accuracy with captivating storytelling. The book not only recounts the life of C-8 but also showcases the diversity of Californian wildlife and offers practical solutions for better coexistence between humans and pumas.

Illustrating C-8: A Collaborative Effort

Illustrator Meital Smith, initially unfamiliar with pumas, found joy in deeply researching the species for the project. Her focus was on creating an emotionally resonant character by giving C-8 distinct features that make him relatable and appealing to audiences, such as expressive facial markings and unique fur characteristics.

Intended Audience and Impact

The duo hopes to reach a diverse audience, targeting readers aged 10 and up while being inclusive for younger children and adults. By connecting readers with the struggles of wildlife, the book aims to foster empathy and inspire proactive involvement in conservation efforts.

Ultimately, Yap and Smith hope readers will recognize their interconnectedness with nature and explore ways to coexist with wildlife more harmoniously.