Leopard

Luiperd · Panthera pardus

A powerful, secretive cat with a golden coat covered in rosette-shaped spots. Leopards are solitary and mostly active at night, climbing trees with ease and often hauling their kills up into the branches to keep them safe from lions and hyenas. They are excellent at hiding, so spotting one in dappled shade takes a sharp eye.

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How to identify it

Look for rosette spots (rings) rather than the cheetah's solid round dots, and no black tear-lines on the face.

Look for its tracks

Round cat print like a small lion's, four toes, no claws showing; about the size of your palm.

Where to see it in Kruger

Prefers riverine bush and rocky areas; the Sabie River region in the south is a classic spot for sightings.

Did you know

A leopard is strong enough to drag prey heavier than itself straight up a tree trunk.

Often confused with

Cheetah

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