A contest began today to name an adorable mountain lion cub that was recently adopted by the Arizona-Sonoran Desert Museum.

The cub, found in the backyard of a residential home in San Jose, CA., weighed only 15 lbs. at the time of his rescue, had a massive flea and tick infestation and was dehydrated.

The cub was treated by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, before he made it to his new home at ASDM in April.

Statistics on the ASDM website say the cub loves “lazing” in the shade, chasing rock squirrels and feasting on goat’s milk. He is described as energetic and full of youthful curiosity.

Now 51.5 lbs., a staggering weight difference from the time of his rescue in March, the little guy needs a name.

The little mountain lion cub, new to ASDM.
  • Rhonda Spencer
  • The little mountain lion cub, new to ASDM.

The name entry deadline is 11:59 p.m. on June 21.

According to the press release, the names should also be male or unisex, and reflect the following:

1. Reflect the Desert Museum’s mission;
2. Relate to the Sonoran Desert;
3. Relate to the scientific name for mountain lion (Puma concolor); or
4. Be inspired by names created by former Museum educator, Hal Gras.

Complete entry details and entry form can be found at Enter the Naming Contest

The Top Five Finalists will be invited to a “special celebration” on July 6, where the winner will be announced. The winner will receive a personalized gift from the mountain lion cub (interesting prize), and a free annual family membership, according to the website.

The adorable cub was rescued from a residential home in San Jose, Calif. He now resides at ASDM and is in need of a name.
  • Rhonda Spencer
  • The adorable cub was rescued from a residential home in San Jose, Calif. He now resides at ASDM and is in need of a name.

Happy naming!

This article appears in May 16-22, 2013.

One reply on “The Desert Museum’s Newest Addition Needs a Name!”

  1. I don’t know if my previous entry went through so I repeat it
    I’d like to call him MATTHIEW with the nickname of MATTOU the french name for strong tom cats that rule the neighbourhood.
    Matthiew is soft and he looks like a sweet temperament but Mattou will give him the gumption needed for a strong cat.
    AT LAST I SAW HIM during my third visit in 10 days. I thought you were kidding us. LOL

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