Two Cats
One Story
A Tale of Two Cats
A Tale of Two Cats is a Tiger Tool series covering four of the most important topics in the world of big cats: Conservation, Legal Protection, Media Coverage, and Tourism. Each of these four articles address the broader topic in the context of big cats, but also use cougars and tigers as the two species to frame these subjects. From the face of global wildlife conservation media to a cat classified as vermin in parts of the U.S., tigers and cougars cover the spectrum of experiences lived by big cats on the world today. Join The Tiger Tool as we unpack these vitally important topics in A Tale of Two Cats.
Conservation
Over the course of the 20th century, all seven major big cat species saw a dramatic decline in their global population and range. Although most agree we need to protect these species while we can, conservation is not always straightforward. The path ahead is far from simple, but it is imperative that we take the steps needed to ensure these cats will roam the Earth for years to come.
Legal Protection
Protecting threatened wildlife can be a long and complicated process, and the first step often takes place far from Asian jungles or African savannas. Legal protections are a vital component of successful big cat conservation and their words can shape the natural world thousands of miles away.
Media Coverage
For years, wildlife photographers and videographers have brought the most spectacular stories of the Earth into our living rooms and onto our smartphones. We have all experienced how these pictures and films impact our own lives, but how does wildlife media impact the animals being documented?
Tourism
Tourism in the world of big cats can be a double edged sword. Responsible ecotourism can provide the financial support so desperately needed to fund local conservation projects. However, unregulated wildlife tourism can lead to rampant animal abuse in exchange for profits.