The leopard, divided into 9 subspecies, has relatively shorter legs and a longer body and a large skull compared to other members of Felidae. It is similar in appearance to the jaguar, but has a shorter, lighter structure.

Scientific Name – Panthera pardus

Classification – Panthera

Gender Names – Male – leopard; Female – leopardess; Baby – cub

Collective Noun – leap, prowl, spot (uncommon)

Length/Size – 100cm – 190cm (40in – 75in)

Weight – 30kg – 90kg (66lbs – 198lbs)

Top Speed – 45kph (30mph)

Life Expectancy – 12 – 17 years; up to 21 in captivity

Mating Season – January to mid-March

Gestation Period – 90 – 105 days

Special Features – The fur is marked with rosettes similar to those of the jaguar, but the leopard’s rosettes are smaller and more densely packed

Social Structure – Leads solitary life except when they pair during breeding season or when a female is accompanied by cubs

Geographical Distribution – Sub-Saharan Africa and southern Asia

Natural Habitat – Rainforest, grassland and mountainous regions

Conservation Status –Vulnerable

Diet – Deer, Warthog, Rodents

Predators – Tiger, Lions, Humans