There is a leopard in the bush!

“Mahlo” means eyes in Xsitsonga.

We shouted again as our guide drove further: “It's right behind!!”

After four hours of searching and numerous sightings of other species, we just couldn’t find him. He had arrived and had entered the territory recently. Our search began that late afternoon, and despite passing buffalo, a dazzle of zebras, a sleepy pride of lions, and lots and lots of antelope... there was no sign of this new male. We knew he was here, though. The resident leopard, Malewan, had had his first encounter only a day or so ago and had wounds to show. We were sure the new male would be present, as his arrival was for one reason only: to become the new lord of this manor and take up the residency himself. Finding him was going to be pure chance, though. With excellent camouflage, a tendency to hide well, and being in a vulnerable state, his mission would be to find a place for anyone hard to find. His choices were broad, as the area had plenty of hilly grass verges, low-lying bush, and clumps of trees that would suit him. But luck was on our side.

Keeping dead still, we placed ourselves nearby in view of his secluded station. He was well aware of us, of course, but unconcerned. He continued to lick himself slowly on the back of his one hind leg, tending to the small raw wound that nature would heal quickly. Occasionally he would look up and around, almost as if checking on the state of affairs further past us. But there was no sign of any impending danger. After some time, he eventually sat up and, with one glance around, lifted himself tenderly. After a long stretch, he pawed the ground a little and then slowly meandered past us onto a path that would lead to a river further below the verges to quench his thirst.

African Male Leopard: Fighting for Territory

Leopards are among Africa's most elusive big cats, making it a rare spectacle to witness an intense encounter between them. Due to the inherent risk of injury, most confrontations tend to end in displays of intimidation rather than full-blown physical conflict. Growling, bared teeth, and posturing are common tactics used to avoid serious harm. As solitary hunters, any injury could severely impair their ability to hunt or defend themselves, potentially leading to fatal consequences.

Traditionally, leopards are considered solitary animals, only coming together during mating or when females are caring for cubs. However, experienced wildlife guides have observed that leopards, particularly males and females within overlapping territories, may encounter one another more frequently than previously thought. This subtle social interaction challenges the conventional understanding of their behaviour.

Male leopards have significantly larger territories than females, often ranging three to five times the size. Their primary goal is to control as vast a territory as possible to increase their chances of mating with multiple females and passing on their genes. Males typically leave their mother's territory around two years old and only reach their prime between the ages of four and six. During this time, they develop physical characteristics such as a large neck and dewlap, signalling their readiness to establish dominance.

To claim territory, a male leopard will explore new areas, assessing the presence of dominant rivals through scent marking and potential encounters. Much like lions, leopards use vocalisations known as roars to communicate. Males roar to assert control over their territory, while females use the sound to attract mates and communicate with their cubs. Despite their solitary nature, these interactions play a crucial role in the complex lives of these magnificent predators.

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.

Sony A1, Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM OSS II, FL: 200mm, S: 1/1,250s, A: F4.5, ISO: 2000