Clouded leopard

© Dhritiman Mukherjee/Alam

Info. Clouded leopard

Clouded leopards are stealthy, solitary creatures native to the tropical jungles of Southeast Asia. The animal gets its name from the large, cloud-like patterns on its yellow coat. With short, powerful legs and a long tail, the clouded leopard is perfectly adapted for living in the trees. Flexible ankle joints allow it to descend trunks headfirst, one of only two cat species that can do this. A long tail provides balance for leaps between trees, and sharp, retractable claws let this jungle climber hang off branches. Considered a vulnerable species, these cats are rarely seen and there are thought to be only about 10,000 adults left in the wild.