Leopards ~The Majestic and Enigmatic Big Cats of the Wild
Leopards, scientifically known as Panthera pardus, are one of the five ‘big cats’ of the genus Panthera. Known for their distinctive dark spots and agile bodies, leopards are remarkable members of the animal kingdom, boasting a combination of strength, intelligence, and beauty. Found across various regions of Africa and parts of Asia, they are versatile creatures that have adapted to different environments, from deserts and mountains to jungles and grasslands. Their solitary nature and incredible stealth and speed make them one of nature’s most efficient predators. However, they are more than just hunters; leopards are a vital part of their ecosystems, with their very existence contributing to the delicate balance of nature.
Physical Attributes
Leopards are medium-sized big cats, typically measuring between 1 and 2 metres in body length, with a tail that can extend an additional 90 centimetres. Males are usually larger than females, weighing between 36 and 180 kilograms, while females weigh between 27 and 155 kilograms.
One of the most striking features of the leopard is its coat. It is covered in a tawny or golden hue with black rosettes, unique to each individual, much like a human fingerprint. The rosettes are circular in East African leopards but square in southern African leopards. Some leopards are also melanistic, a trait more commonly known as ‘black panther’, which results from an overproduction of pigment and appears in dense, forested areas where light levels are lower.
Leopards have a robust build with a large skull. They also possess powerful jaws and necks, enabling them to carry their prey up trees to secure it from other predators. Their bodies are designed for power rather than long-distance running. They have a barrel-chested torso and thick, muscular limbs, and their retractable claws provide excellent grip, crucial for climbing trees and catching prey.
Leopard’s eyes are large and expressive, providing them with excellent night vision, essential for their predominantly nocturnal hunting habits. Leopards also have keen hearing and a strong sense of smell. This makes them one of the most effective predators in the animal kingdom.

Habitats and Distribution
Back in 1750, leopards were found in most parts of Africa below the Sahara and some regions in the north and northeast of the continent. They also lived in Asia Minor, Central Asia, India, China, and Manchuria. However, as of 2019, the species has lost a significant portion of its range, up to 75%. Although Leopards can still be found in scattered regions throughout Africa and parts of Asia, their wild population has dwindled to just 250,000.
These creatures are highly adaptable and are known for their versatility as predators. They can survive in various environments, such as savannas, woodlands, mountains, and even urban areas.
The Elusive Nature of Leopards
Being primarily nocturnal, leopards are shrouded in an air of mystery. Unlike their social counterparts, such as lions, they are generally solitary creatures, seeking solitude during the day and emerging under cover of darkness to hunt. Their stealthy and elusive behaviour has often made it challenging for them to study in the wild. Thus adding to the fascination surrounding these elusive big cats.
Hunting and Prey Preferences
Leopards are skilled and adaptable hunters who can capture a wide range of prey, from tiny rodents to large ungulates like deer and antelope. Their impressive strength enables them to hoist prey twice their size up into trees, keeping them safe from scavengers and other predators. This ability to climb trees is a distinctive trait of leopards and has significantly contributed to their evolutionary achievements.

Threats and Conservation
The decline of leopard populations is primarily due to poaching, with the Amur leopard being particularly vulnerable to trophy hunters. These majestic animals often live near human settlements, making them easy targets. The primary motivation behind poaching is the valuable fur of the leopard, which is usually sold as rugs or clothing. Poaching has adverse effects not only on the Amur leopards but also on their prey, such as deer and rabbits. This makes it challenging for them to survive. Moreover, the Amur leopard is facing difficulties in finding enough food in China as the population of its prey is declining.

Although criticised by conservationists, several countries still permit trophy hunting. African nations such as Zambia, Tanzania, and Mozambique have policies that allow it. Moreover, some farmers view leopards as pests and may take measures to eliminate them to protect their animals. As a result, the IUCN has categorised leopards as vulnerable. However, there are still a sufficient number of them that repopulation is feasible.
Nevertheless, some subspecies face more significant threats than others. The Amur leopard, for instance, is the rarest, with only about 100 individuals left in the wild. There are 180-200 in captivity. It is classified as Critically Endangered and may soon vanish. Similarly, the Javan leopard, with only about 250 mature adults in the wild, is also on the Critically Endangered list. Sadly, human activity is diminishing its chances of survival. With just 200 individuals remaining, the Arabian leopard is also in serious danger of becoming extinct.

Conclusion
Leopards have fascinated humans with their stunning appearance and elusive nature for centuries. As top predators, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of their ecosystems. Sadly, human-induced factors are endangering their survival, making conservation efforts urgent.