A Leopards Power

Even if you were to read a book on leopards, it is very difficult to appreciate the immense power that is at this magnificent cat’s disposal. The fact that it is also an illusive animal by nature also doesn’t help. Yesterday on our afternoon safari the Sabi Sands lived up to its world renowned reputation and my guests and I enjoyed an amazing sighting of a female leopard with a Kudu kill at the base of a big Marula Tree. As the sun set and the leopard grew more and more weary of a nearby Hyena clan, she decided to move the kill and hoist it into the top branches of the Marula Tree. The strength and power is unbelievable to see as she dealt with clumsy limbs and annoying branches. She soon settled down, with her kill resting in the fork of the tree and out of the way of prying eyes. After a few minutes she left the kill and made her way back to a drainage line where we assume she is denning with young cubs. At the moment we are lucky enough to have three females leopards with new litters which will make for exciting viewing.

Posted: Exeter by Brendan Streak, Date: 4 May 2008

 
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