Wildlife Club
Wildlife
In late October 2015, Popcorn Park received a call about two orphaned cougar cubs, whose mother had tragically been killed in a legal trophy hunt. Despite efforts by the state's Fish and Game department to find a safe place for them, no suitable options were available and the cubs faced imminent euthanasia. When we heard of their story, we knew we could not turn them away. The brothers arrived at Popcorn Park shortly after, offering them a future and a second chance at life that they otherwise would not have had.
Once they arrived, the cubs were named Tocho, meaning "mountain lion," and Shilo, meaning "brother." These names reflect their wild heritage and the bond they share. Shilo, the shyer of the two, has always been more reserved. He tends to sleep in during the mornings, often waiting until the afternoon to stretch his legs. While he and Tocho remain elusive to visitors due to their wild nature, they have both grown into strong, healthy cougars under our care. Shilo’s natural instincts thrive in the protected environment of the Refuge, where he is free to roam and express himself without fear of harm.
Their story highlights the tragic reality of trophy hunting and the dangers faced by wildlife like cougars in the wild. In their natural habitat, cougars often fall victim to hunting for sport, leaving their cubs vulnerable to a harsh fate. At Popcorn Park, Shilo and Tocho are safe from harm, and their continued well-being is a testament to the refuge we provide for them. It is our mission to protect these majestic creatures and educate the public about the importance of wildlife conservation.
While Shilo may be a bit more reserved, he’s still got plenty of charm. You can help support his care and well-being by becoming his sponsor. Your sponsorship ensures that Shilo and his brother Tocho continue to thrive in a safe, enriching environment, and that we can continue to advocate for wildlife protection.
