Neil Villard Tracks the Elusive Puma in “Le Fantôme des Rocheuses”

Photographer and tracker Neil Villard has dedicated years to documenting large predators, evolving from tracking the Eurasian lynx and Amur tiger to focusing on cougars in the Canadian Rockies. His work, culminating in the book and film project “PUMA, le Fantôme des Rocheuses” (The Ghost of the Rockies), offers a unique perspective on these elusive animals, blending patient observation with artistic expression.

A Decade of Tracking Experience

Villard is a self-taught tracker and wildlife photographer who has spent fifteen years studying large predators. His approach centers on immersing himself in the animal’s environment, learning to read signs and understand their behavior. He emphasizes the importance of time and respect in his work, believing these are crucial for a naturalist’s understanding. He has spent over 180 days in the field over three winters, traveling more than 2,000 kilometers on foot and following hundreds of kilometers of puma tracks, observing at least 40 different trails.

“Le Fantôme des Rocheuses”: A Multi-Faceted Project

“PUMA, le Fantôme des Rocheuses” is presented as both a book and a film, born from three winters of solitary tracking. The project is structured in two parts: a visual experience with images presented without commentary, allowing the raw beauty and Villard’s perspective to speak for themselves, and a narrative component where he shares his personal experiences and reflections on animal perception and the connection between humans and the natural world. The work aims to be a sensory and philosophical journey into the world of pumas.

Collaboration with Le Grand JD

Villard recently collaborated with Julien Donzé, known as Le Grand JD, a Genevan YouTuber with four million subscribers, on a documentary project. Donzé followed Villard in Canada, documenting his puma tracking efforts. Villard appreciated Donzé’s talent as a filmmaker and his ability to respect the natural environment during filming. The collaboration, which also included a previous expedition to film bears in Romania, resulted in a documentary that emphasizes authenticity and captures the essence of Villard’s work. The pair spent 58 days in the field, averaging 14 hours of walking per day.

A Focus on Authenticity and Preservation

Villard’s primary goal is to photograph pumas to raise awareness about their preservation. He tracks the animals without using bait, relying on his skills as a tracker to locate and observe them. His work highlights the importance of understanding and respecting these predators and their habitat. The book, published by Neil Villard et Mokkö, is more than just a collection of images or a naturalistic manual; it’s intended as a sensory and introspective experience, inviting readers to slow down, question assumptions, and attempt to understand the world of these magnificent creatures.

Key Figures from the Project

• 180 days in the field, over three winters
• More than 2,000 kilometers traveled on foot
• Hundreds of kilometers of puma tracks followed
• More than 40 different trails observed
• Hundreds of hours spent in hides

Neil Villard’s work offers a rare glimpse into the life of the puma, emphasizing the importance of patience, respect, and a deep connection with the natural world.