Modern Weights and Measurements of Leopards

[Ngala]

From AfriCat Namibia:

Collaring of Terra and Nova

During this and the preceding year we were able to monitor and study the mother-offspring dynamics between Isaskia and her two male cubs thoroughly. This is the first litter since her initial collaring which she managed to raise until adulthood. The former helpless and vulnerable cubs who were entirely reliant on their mothers’ care have now grown into two handsome sub-adult leopard males of impressive size. Because the two males are spending more and more time apart from their mother, both were fitted with VHF radio collars last week. Collaring sub-adult individuals is giving us the unique opportunity to monitor and understand the underlying mechanisms of natal dispersal behavior in an environment of high leopard density.

The cubs were named TERRA and NOVA meaning “New Land” (Terra means “land” and Nova means “new).

Upon immobilization Terra and Nova were in excellent condition, both with a shiny and supple coat and clean teeth with no enamel scratches or cracks. Even though the two males are the same age, Nova who is the larger and more dominant of the two cubs weighs a remarkable 20 kilogram more than his lighter brother, Terra who only weighed 34.3 kilogram.

We are excited to be able to accompany them during their process of becoming independent adult male leopards who are trying to find their feet and territory in a protected and fenced area with an existing high leopard population.

#AfriCat #Namibia #leopard #research #conservationphotography

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

*This image is copyright of its original author

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