LEOPARD

The leopard (Panthera pardus) is a medium to large wild cat native to Africa and parts of Asia. It is one of the smallest members of the genus Panthera, but is a powerful predator with a compact, muscular build. The coat is typically pale gold or yellow with dark rosettes; melanistic individuals, known as black panthers, occur in some populations. Body length commonly ranges from about 90 to 190 cm, with a tail that adds another 60 to 110 cm. Adult males are generally larger than females and can weigh from 25 to 90 kg, depending on region.

Taxonomy and subspecies are subject to ongoing revision. Panthera pardus has been classified into numerous subspecies by traditional taxonomies, and genetic studies have shown distinct lineages corresponding to geography. Despite this, leopard populations today are often managed as regional populations rather than a single uniform subspecies.

Distribution and habitat extend across sub-Saharan Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and much of Asia, from the Middle East and India to Indochina, China, and the Russian Far East. Leopards inhabit a wide range of environments, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and mountainous regions, and are notable for their adaptability. They are solitary and territorial, usually avoiding dense human activity.

Ecology and behavior: leopards are opportunistic hunters with a diverse diet that includes ungulates and smaller mammals. They are proficient climbers and often haul prey into trees to protect it from scavengers. They are mostly nocturnal or crepuscular and mark territory with scrapes and scent.

Reproduction: females give birth to litters of two to four cubs after a gestation of roughly 90–105 days. Cubs stay with the mother for 1–2 years. Population trends are declining in many areas due to habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with humans; IUCN Red List status is Vulnerable.