Leopard mother grooming her cub, Jao Reserve, Botswana

© Suzi Eszterhas/Minden Picture

Leopard mother grooming her cub, Jao Reserve, Botswana

Leopards are among the most fascinating big cats in the animal kingdom, found across Africa and Asia. Known for its striking rosette-patterned coat, it excels in stealth and adaptability. Its slender, muscular body can reach a length of over 180 centimetres, complemented by a long tail measuring around 1 metre and a shoulder height of 60 centimetres. A skilled and opportunistic hunter, it preys on a wide range of animals, like impalas, warthogs and even baboons. The leopard thrives in diverse habitats, from dense rainforests to open steppes, as well as dry and mountainous regions, making it one of the most adaptable cats in the wild.

Featured in today's image is a leopard mother and her cub. Leopard mothers share territory with their cubs, providing protection and guidance as they grow. At around nine weeks, cubs begin eating meat and by three months they start joining hunts, learning essential survival skills. By their first year, they can fend for themselves, but they typically stay with their mother for up to two years before venturing out on their own. Leopards are truly remarkable creatures, showcasing a blend of beauty, strength and adaptability.