Leopard

[Lisbeth]

Wow! Where?

Welcome, Rooicat

[Rooicat]

S66, walking on the road as we were driving away from Transport Dam - a very relaxed individual.

[Rooicat]

S110 tar, half way from BED, also November 25th 2022, 3:30pm.

[Richprins]

[Lisbeth]

A beautiful cat

[Michele Nel]

wow..how beautiful ...:)

[Richprins]

https://youtu.be/O9Pxm06oYtY

[Lisbeth]

A curious kitten

[Lisbeth]

Did you know that, like most young humans, young leopards go through a dumb teenage phase?

This is particularly true of adolescent males. Driven by a soup of hormones, youthful curiosity and (I assume) an underdeveloped prefrontal cortex, they may start doing strange things like following lions, stalking rhinos, and even observing people or jumping on cars.

Of course, this “abnormal” behaviour immediately sees them labelled as dangerous or problematic. And when humans permit, encourage, and promote this behaviour, the animal invariably suffers.

The fact this week was inspired by a video doing the rounds of a young leopard in the Kruger that leapt onto the hood of a car and set about investigating the occupants (I will not be promoting it further). It has been widely shared, including by a well-known media platform, without reference to how this behaviour should be discouraged. I continue to be amazed at how people will exploit wildlife for their social media fame. And then, when called out on it, fail to show any humility or admit to mistakes (which we all make).

I cannot believe I have to say this, but please don’t let leopards or other big cats climb onto your car. And for guides, photographers and wildlife “influencers” - please be aware of the message you send out into the world.

Jamie Paterson - Scientific Editor - Africa Geographic.

[Richprins]

I don't think it is that serious...