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Tailor-made safaris and travel to Southern Africa

THE LEOPARD

A leopard on the lookout for prey


A leopard bares his teethA leopard uses a termite mound as a vantage point

In contrast to the lion, the leopard (Panthera pardus) is a reclusive loner, hunting alone using stealth and wit. Pound for pound these are the most powerful of all cats, capable of dragging carcasses heavier than themselves many feet high in trees, where they are safe beyond the reach of competing predators and scavengers.


Surprisingly, leopards are probably the most numerous of Africa's large predators but, because of their extremely shy, cautious nature, they are rarely seen. These sleek cats are mostly nocturnal but, in areas where they are less threatened, will frequently hunt in the early morning or late afternoon. They do not roar, but communicate via load rasping calls. They are arguably the most graceful and elegant of all cats, with unmatched poise and composure. A leopard sighting is a highlight of any African safari.



A leopard defends its kill in a tree


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