Spotting Leopards in South Luangwa

Leopard Behaviour

The leopard or panthera pardus is one of the most dangerous predators on the African continent. Leopards can kill prey larger than themselves and are masters at camouflaging themselves in bushes or high up in the trees. They prey on anything from insects and smaller rodents to fully grown antelope and are very opportunistic hunters. The leopard’s usual strategy is to ambush its prey and suffocate it with a bite to the throat. Panthera pardus is the only large cat that hides its kill in trees. The leopard is an excellent climber and can carry kill larger than itself, putting it out of the reach of other predators and scavengers.

Leopards are mostly nocturnal animals. They usually only get active at dusk and spend the day high up the trees. Leopards are not very sociable. The big cats roam a large territory all on their lonesome, avoiding contact with their own kind. Confrontation between leopards is often violent and the feline only becomes more amiable when it is time to mate.

The Leopards of South Luangwa

One of the best places to see the elusive cat is the South Luangwa National Park in Zambia, where the density of leopard is among the highest in the world. The woodlands and lush vegetation of the South Luangwa valley allow the leopard to roam the area in secrecy. The park not only offers a wide range of abundant wildlife but also a great infrastructure with many welcoming lodges and knowledgeable safari guides. Guides such as Derek Shenton of Shenton Safaris have years of experience in spotting leopards and other elusive wildlife. The game drives at Shenton Safaris are specialized towards the needs of amateur and professional wildlife photographers. The photographic safaris offer customised vehicles, photographic hides and guidance and advice from wildlife experts. In South Luangwa you not only have the best chances of seeing a leopard but you might even witness panthera pardus carrying its prey into the safe heights of a tree. Just remember to have your camera ready!

Click here to see Safari Videos from Zambia.