On the Prowl

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At the start of the Pleistocene Ice Age, the shifting climates and ecosystems of Africa and Asia created new opportunities for evolutionary adaptation among herbivores and carnivores, particularly the pantherine felids, or big cats. While big cats like leopards, tigers, and lions are iconic, their origins and history remain only partially understood, with gaps in the fossil record. This book offers a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of big cats and their role in ancient Ice Age ecosystems, detailing their often adversarial relationship with humans as another apex predator. The narrative is enriched with meticulously documented text based on the latest research from leading carnivore paleontologists, complemented by accurate and detailed illustrations. Hallett’s skill in "life reconstruction" and "scenic" imagery brings these ancient animals to life. Concluding with a compelling argument for renewed big cat conservation efforts, the book aims to inspire those concerned about the fate of pantherines. By highlighting the significant evolutionary journey of big cats and the challenges they have faced, the authors emphasize the urgency of their call to action: will we, through negligence, allow this remarkable lineage to vanish?