Leopard Fact Sheet

Leopards (Panthera pardus) are endangered mammals commonly found in Africa, though they are also seen in India, China and Central Asia. These carnivores can live up to 21 years in captivity and share familial roots with jaguars, lions and tigers. Leopards are cunning and swift, preferring to eat pigs, antelope and deer, although the big cats have been known to attack humans, livestock and pets as well.

Size

Leopards stand around 28 inches at the shoulder with weights ranging from 66 to 176 lbs. Their bodies measure anywhere from four to six feet, and their tails are three to four feet long.

Identification

Rosettes, the dark spots found on leopards, offer camouflage. Black leopards also have spots, but are difficult to see due to the dark coat color.

Considerations

Leopards are nocturnal predators, performing most of their hunting from tree branches, but will hunt in tall grasses, too.

Expert Insight

Strong yet agile, leopards drag their prey back into the trees and devour it. The trees' heights keep opportunistic scavengers away.

Fun Fact

Leopards enjoy water and swimming. They also catch and feed upon crabs and fish.

References

• National Geographic: Leopard Profile
• AWF: Leopards

Resources

• Leopard Pictures and Facts