The Illusive Leopard

The African leopard is one of the 'Big 5' animals (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard) that sets the benchmark for what most travellers would like to see when on an African safari. Should you decide on South Africa as your safari destination then the Kruger National Park will almost certainly be your first destination to consider. The Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa and game viewing can take place either in the Greater Kruger National Park itself or in the many Private Game Reserves that are situated along its borders. An area that has gained a reputation as one of the best areas for viewing leopards is the Londolozi Private Game Reserve. 

The leopard is arguably the most beautiful of the large cats in Africa and spotting them or capturing them on film can be a rare occasion.

It is common for the first time safari traveller to confuse the leopard with the cheetah but unlike the cheetah which relies on speed, the leopard relies on the surprise factor and strength to pull down its prey. They kill by grabbing their prey by the throat and biting down with their powerful jaws to suffocate them. After the kill the leopard (which is incredibly strong and can carry up to double its own body weight, i.e wildebeest) normally drags its prey to the safe heights of a tree to protect the carcass from scavengers such as hyenas and jackals and even lions should they be in the area. They are the only big cat that hides their prey in trees and although generally nocturnal they are also opportunist and will hunt during the day if necessary. Leopards are solitary animals an highly territorial. They mark their territory with urine and claw marks and announce their presence to other leopards with a rasping cough. They will only tolerate other trespassers in their territory when they wish to mate.

Unfortunately due to the beauty of the leopard's fur it is often used by certain cultures for ceremonial robes. Other parts of the leopard are also used for 'muti' in traditional healing. This combined with recreational hunting, farmers eradicating them for killing their livestock and degrading of habitat their population figures are starting to become a cause for concern.

On our Kruger National Park Safaris you will have every opportunity of spotting leopard in the wild as well as the many other wild animals that roam our reserves freely. Our guides are vastly experienced and will contribute immensely to your safari experience.