Leopard (Panthera pardus)

The Leopard, also known as the Panther, has a wide distribution across India, extending into Burma and Sri Lanka. Typically, a leopard from the Indian Peninsula is a sleek, short-haired animal with a fulvous or bright fulvous coat adorned with small, close-set black rosettes.

Adaptable and versatile, the Leopard can thrive in various habitats and is known to inhabit diverse landscapes. Unlike some other big cats, the Leopard is known to hunt during the day, especially if it has been unsuccessful in securing prey during the night.

Leopards are opportunistic hunters and will prey on a variety of animals, including cattle, deer, monkeys, smaller prey species, and larger rodents like porcupines. Due to its habitat preferences and hunting behavior, the Leopard often comes into closer contact with humans compared to other big cats like the tiger. Consequently, it poses a greater potential threat to human life and property, making it a significant concern for wildlife management and conservation efforts.