The magnificent leopard, their coats covered in black rosettes and spotted patterns are powerfully built and the second largest of the big cats found in South Africa. This magnificent predator is diurnal and nocturnal, meaning they are less active during the hotter hours of the day, with an activity peak at night. They are also solitary and defend their territory range. Dr David Mills, the Endangered Wildlife Trust Carnivore Conservation Program Manager, gave us some insight and information about this amazing animal.
It is currently estimated that there are between 2 813 and 1 632 leopards in South Africa. Of these, the bulk lives in the bushveld of the north and east of the country (Kruger National Park, Limpopo, Mpumalanga, and North West Provinces). It is difficult to calculate precise densities.
The leopard is classified as Vulnerable both in the southern African region and globally. Habitat loss and direct persecution by farmers and for local and international wildlife trade have led to severe declines in their population. This led to their global up-listing on the IUCN Red List in 2016 from Near Threatened to Vulnerable and their up-listing in South Africa from Least Concern to Vulnerable.
This story is from the April - May 2020 edition of Caravan & Outdoor Life.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the April - May 2020 edition of Caravan & Outdoor Life.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Resorts Of The Month: Kruisrivier Guest Farm
Off the beaten track and ideal for the off-roading camper
Lagoon And Beachfront Bliss
Morgan Bay Campsite, EC
Conservation: The Endangered Vultures
Rating: The conservation of vultures in Africa is generally regarded as high priority, although limited resources are made available to assist with this important work.
Crisp, Clean Air & Gurgling Streams It Seems
Old Mac Daddy, WC
Destination Of The Month: Transkei On The Fly
When the call came in from a fellow journalist, that his doctor had suggested he not travel due to a recent op, I had about a day to get everything prepared for an adventure to the Transkei Wild Coast.
13 Top Tips For Outdoor Accessory Maintenance
You certainly don’t want to arrive at your holiday destination only to find your gas bottles are empty, the tent has been chewed to heavenly holiness by marauding mice, and you left grandma napping in the caravan when you put it out to pasture at your local Storage Land for the winter season.
our take on SNAKES
Caravan & Outdoor Life joins some of South Africa’s leading herpetologists in the Maputaland region to find rare species and teach the local rural residents how to react to snakes. With Opposite Lock on board, we’re all set to strike at a moment’s notice…
Caravan clinic
Our expert answers your technical questions & gives camping advice
Around The Campfire
Readers share their outdoor adventures and air their values
In The Shade Of A Dappled Glade
Slanghoek Mountain Resort, WC