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Leopard
The leopard forms the other half of the big five’s genus Panthera contingent, alongside the lion. It is the smallest of the four big cats which make up this genus, and particularly noted for its reclusive nature.
The combination of the leopard’s slight frame and larger than average jaw make for an extremely lithe, stealthy and agile predator, sporting powerful, large jaws - some would say, the perfect killing machine. The leopard’s camouflage and nocturnal hunting habits combine to make it a swift and efficient predator, rarely seen hunting (which is better for guests than it is for this cat’s unsuspecting prey). An interesting varient on the standard leopard colouring is that of the “black panther”, a melanistic morph of the leopard itself - armed with its sleek black coat, this “cousin” to the leopard is virtually invisible in the dense evening brush. The average leopard diet consists of around 78% impala, and animals roughly the same size. Adding to the leopard’s skill as a hunter are its opportunistic strike technique, ability to run at speeds close to 58 kph, and its extreme adaptability to most environments and conditions.
Furthering their own habits of seclusion and privacy, leopards will often drag their kills into the bows of trees. Large amounts of their relaxation occurs in tree branches, and it is here that Kruger Park guests may encounter the quintessential leopard sighting - perched lazily across the branches of the marula tree, the leopard makes for a regal and impressive sight passing away the hours until dusk. These cats prefer the marula tree because of its soft bark, which allows their claws more grip and better climbing.
Territorial disputes and spats have been noted, during studies over extended periods, of this cat and its habitats. While male and female home-ranges can differ drastically, with males typically marking territories at a much further range than females. Mating periods can also differ, cats in certain regions mating at any and most periods throughout the year, while in others partnerships are formed and mating only occurs at certain periods during the year - this is another factor which can be heavily influenced by the solitary nature of these mysterious cats. Infant mortality rates are high amongst leopards, with 50% of a four-cat litter typically not making it to maturity.