African Leopard
(Panthera Pardus)
African leopard are highly skilled and patient hunters, capable of silently stalking their prey to within just 5 to 10 metres before launching a sudden attack. Relying on stealth, camouflage, and explosive strength, they seize their target with powerful forelimbs before delivering a fatal bite to the throat or the back of the neck. Unlike many other predators, African leopards often drag their kill into trees, keeping it safe from scavengers such as hyenas and lions.
| Size | Males 70-80cm and female 60-70cm at shoulder |
|---|---|
| Weight | Males 60-90kg and female 30-60kg |
| Lifespan | 11-15 years |
| Habitat & Distribution | Wide range, extremely adaptable but needs good cover to hunt and hide. Territories usually include rocky outcrops and densely wooded drainage lines |
| Gestation | 100 days |
| Number of Young | two to three |
| Food | Wide variety from mice, reptiles and fish to large antelope and small carnivores, mainly medium-sized antelope like impala, readily scavenges |
| Predators | Cubs killed by lions and hyena |