There is a world somewhere between reality and fiction. Although ignored by many, it is very real and so are those living in it. This forum is about the natural world. Here, wild animals will be heard and respected. The forum offers a glimpse into an unknown world as well as a room with a view on the present and the future. Anyone able to speak on behalf of those living in the emerald forest and the deep blue sea is invited to join.
05-15-2019, 11:53 AM( This post was last modified: 05-15-2019, 02:04 PM by Luipaard )
From Prey of the Persian Leopard (Panthera pardus saxicolor) in a mixed forest-steppe landscape in northeastern Iran:
*This image is copyright of its original author
*This image is copyright of its original author
Extensive studies by Philip Henschel have shown that hogs and duikers are the main prey for leopards here and he suspects it’s the males who are mostly preying on the hogs. This most likely has resulted in the male leopards here becoming more specialized 'big game hunters'.
You know, it's not about the capability of bringing down large prey, it's about the frequency. Sure, South African leopards have more 'options' available, but their main prey are still impala's and not young giraffe or zebra.