Khotha
Sony A1, FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, FL: 200mm, S: 1/1000, A: F2.8, ISO: 5,000.
The taste was a pleasure, but his eyes were alert as he constantly scanned the bush around him.
Khotha means “lick” in IsisZulu.
It was an incredible sunset as the African golden-brown hues appeared and the hush of evening arrived. Stirring in the long grass, a leopard was shifting his kill quietly toward a large nearby tree. His journey was heavy, as the antelope he had managed to take down was a large buck - one not easily carried through the dense grass and up a tree. He seemed to know this, taking a short break on his way on his journey, settling quietly, and taking some well-earned bites to feed his muscled yet hungry frame. He was a successful hunter. His glossy coat and firm demeanour, showed this success, which had translated well into his vigour and ongoing survival. Quietly, he looked up. His ear flicked briefly as he picked up a distant yet worrying sound. An approaching cackle of laughter rolled over the hills of the approaching hyena. Lifting himself stealthily, he turned, figuring out his time and distance to the sanctuary of the nearby acacia tree. Without hesitation, he clambered over his kill. Slowly yet almost effortlessly, he dragged it to the base of the trunk, ready to climb to safety.
Some Leopard Facts
Known as opportunistic predators, leopards primarily hunt ungulates and primates. Their spotted pattern serves as a remarkable camouflage, allowing them to stalk and ambush their prey with remarkable precision. Once they've made a kill, leopards often drag their prey up into trees, a behavior that sets them apart from other big cats.
Leopards are predominantly solitary creatures, except during the mating season or when raising their cubs. Female leopards typically give birth to a litter of 2-4 cubs once every 15-24 months. Both male and female leopards reach sexual maturity between the ages of 2 and 2.5 years.
Despite their adaptability and prowess, leopard populations are facing significant threats. Classified as "vulnerable" on the IUCN Red List, these magnificent cats are experiencing habitat loss and fragmentation, leading to a decline in their global population.
Apart from their ecological significance, leopards have played cultural roles in various societies. They have been revered in ancient Greece, celebrated in West Africa, and continue to captivate modern Western culture. Their skins have unfortunately become popular in the fashion industry, further endangering their existence.
Leopards are also known for their exceptional climbing abilities. Pound for pound, they are the strongest climbers among the big cats. Their shoulder blades are specially adapted for stronger climbing muscles, allowing them to spend much of their time in trees. This behaviour not only helps them stalk prey but also protects their kill from lions and hyenas, who would steal it if given the chance. By hoisting their kill high up in tree branches, leopards can feed in relative safety.
These nocturnal creatures value their space. While they are solitary, each leopard has a home range that overlaps with its neighbours. Males have larger ranges, often overlapping with several females. To mark their territories, leopards use urine and claw marks.
Raw Africa Collection
Welcome to Africa - the wise, the restless, the life giving.
This soulful land of dreamers gives rise to the underbelly of a beautiful gentle beat that is only heard by those who listen for it. This photographic journey explores, profiles and captures what I hope is the heart and soul of Africa's true wilderness kingdom. From its deep bush to its dry savannah and desert, Africa remains a place where life is represented by timeless vistas that are distilled into moments to treasure.
