The Unforgettable Journey of Steve Winter: Champion of Big Cats
For three decades, photojournalist Steve Winter has dedicated his life to capturing the majesty of big cats for National Geographic. Yet, intriguingly, he didn’t embark on this incredible career until he turned 34. Reflecting on his unexpected path, Winter recounted, “If anybody had said, ‘You’re going to work with big cats for 25 years of your career,’ I would have said ‘No, I don’t know anything about big cats.’” His journey has been characterized by continuous learning and deepening respect for these majestic predators, guided not just by his own exploration but also by invaluable insights from scientists and local communities.
Winter’s impactful work includes notable cases like exposing the revelations from the infamous Tiger Temple in Bangkok, which ultimately led to its closure. Partnering with his wife, Sharon Guynup, an author and environmental journalist, Winter has also been instrumental in enacting legal protections for big cats in the U.S. One of his most iconic achievements is the breathtaking photograph of P-22, a cougar thriving in urban Los Angeles. This photograph didn’t just capture attention; it sparked advocacy for the Wallis Annenberg Wildlife Crossing—set to be the largest highway wildlife corridor in the world.
The Power of Photography
In their upcoming book, “Big Cats,” set for release in 2026 by National Geographic Books, Winter and Guynup reflect on their careers and the fragile state of these predators. They urge readers to understand the precarious nature of big cats, emphasizing the conservation efforts crucial for their survival.
Winter shared that the photograph of P-22 serves as a poignant reminder of the profound impact photography can have. “I know that in taking this picture, not only did I succeed beyond my wildest expectations, but it’s making a difference in the world,” he explained. The transformation in public awareness surrounding urban wildlife after the image circulated is nothing short of remarkable. A mountain lion has become a symbol of wildlife conservation, fostering discussions around habitat connectivity within sprawling urban landscapes.
The Journey to Capture P-22
When discussing how the P-22 photograph came about, Winter recalled the numerous meetings he attended with scientists concerned about urban wildlife. His interaction with biologist Jeff Sikich from the National Park Service established a trajectory that would ultimately lead to P-22’s fame. Despite Skepticism about the possibility of a mountain lion in Griffith Park, Winter stayed the course, leading to an essential moment when they captured P-22 on camera. “Eight months later, I got a text,” he recounted, highlighting the pivotal moment that connected man, mountain lion, and the strife of urban living.
The Dark Side of Wildlife Preservation
While Winter’s work is celebrated, it also unveils the darker aspects of wildlife conservation. During his time in Thailand, Winter witnessed the exploitation of tigers at the Tiger Temple, an experience that deeply affected him. Despite the initial warnings from fellow scientists, his sense of duty drove him to investigate. What he found was not just a crude form of entertainment but a façade for heinous acts connected to the black market for tiger parts. His courage and willingness to expose the temple’s dark secrets eventually led to its closure, serving as a significant turning point in animal welfare.
The Unique Challenges in the U.S.
The investigation didn’t stop there. Winter and Guynup uncovered that there were more tigers kept in captivity in the U.S. than in the wild. From luxury roadside zoos to breeding operations, the duo dredged through the disturbing reality of “speed-breeding” practices, which exploited these animals for profit. Their findings fueled a push for legislation, leading to the Big Cat Public Safety Act, which President Biden signed into law in December 2022. This landmark act was a significant victory for animal conservationists, illustrating how impactful investigative journalism can lead to real change.
A Heartfelt Relation with Big Cats
Winter’s lifelong relationship with big cats stems from their charisma and the unique role they play in the ecosystem. He describes these animals as “mystical,” and recognizes them as umbrella species, meaning that by saving them, various other species and the broader ecosystem benefit, too. His extensive travels to photograph these creatures, from the Pantanal’s jaguars to the elusive Himalayan snow leopards, continue to fuel his passion. Winter expressed regret for missing the chance to photograph Amur tigers, whose populations faced devastating declines due to disease. Yet he remains hopeful, attesting to big cats’ resilience when given protection.
In this ongoing narrative of passion, advocacy, and hope, the story of Steve Winter serves as a powerful reminder of the impact that one individual can have through art, journalism, and unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation.