Sometimes leopards must choose their treetop roosts out of necessity. For example, when scrambling up the nearest trunk to stash a fresh kill before any scavengers catch wind of it. There are other times, though, when the big cats are not pressured by kleptoparasites that they appear to select trees that offer optimum comfort and outlook. This leopard definitely chose well.
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I could happily spend every minute of the day in the presence of leopards. These elegant cats have an alluring mystery about them. While filming 'Eye of the Leopard' we were fortunate to witness a cub's journey from helpless newborn to accomplished huntress. We instantly fell in love with Legadema and watched with fascination as she grew in confidence and ability. Her steel-blue eyes turned an incredible shade of bright amber, and they were always attentive.
Here, Legadema and her mom Tortilis take some time out to rest on the branch of a fallen tree. The posture of the cats tells a story about the different phases of life that they're in: Tortilis is relaxed and confident, draped over a branch in typical cat-like style, while her cub is upright and eager, rearing to explore her surroundings.
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Leopards are exceptional climbers and usually navigate through the treetops with ease. But even the most agile cats have their clumsy moments – especially when they are still learning the ropes. This over-eager cub narrowly avoided an inelegant tumble thanks to a supporting paw from her mom. Leopards are built for these kinds of acrobatics and it wasn’t long before she was once again leaping from bough to bough with confidence. Mastering her climbing abilities is just one of the many lessons she’ll need to learn as she develops the skills and knowledge to survive.
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