Patagón
What’s in a name? In the case of the South American region known as Patagonia, there seems to be quite a bit. The origin of the word Patagonia, though, is cloaked in controversy.
One theory relates it was coined from “patagónes”, an appellation supposedly bestowed by European explorers on a mysterious race of indigenous giants. Further expansions of the legend purport the Patagónes had very large feet. Whether or not there’s validity to this narrative, it does make for interesting story-telling.
Fast forward. Today’s image portrays a Puma cub lazily lolling on its back. This cub, if he reaches the age of one year, is destined to be name Patagón. Check out that front paw. Like all of its kind, the feet are impressively large and he’s bound to be a big cat, a giant. So Patagón just might be an appropriate moniker. It appears the enigmatic Patagónes may still roam the untamed Patagonian steppe, just in a different format … and that’s what’s in a name.
~ Anecdote and Puma capture, Patagón © Jerry L. Ferrara