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African Leopards
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Marlon du Toit: " Just the best! No words! Epic every time! I’ve been close to leopards on countless occasion & it just never gets old. How could it, right? "
Beverly Joubert: " As the world wakes up to the threat of a crisis, we have an opportunity to reflect on our relationship with nature. One thing is abundantly clear: when ecosystems are disrupted and biodiversity is threatened it impacts all of us. The current events unfolding across the globe are a harsh reminder of our delicate connection with the natural world and a wake-up call to respect that interdependence.
"Social distancing" and "self-isolation" may be foreign concepts to many of us learning the challenges of overcoming a global threat but, for leopards, a solitary lifestyle is the perfect fit. These big cats rarely interact with others from their species unless it's absolutely necessary, and prefer to roam the landscape alone. In these trying times, the leopard's solitariness sets the tone for the rest of us. And while many people persist in isolation, it's important to remember that we are united by our power to overcome grave situations and alter our behaviour towards a healthy coexistence with all species that call this planet home."
Howard Cleland: " ON HIS THRONE: One of two mature cubs sits and ponders at the top of a bank before making its way down to the river area for the night. All eyes and ears in every direction before quietly moving forward and disappearing into the night. "
Marlon du Toit: " A male leopard checks a spot when another rival male left its scent.
Leopards (both male & female) are incredibly territorial & will come to blows should the need arise. They mark their territory by means of urine & scat, & also proclaim territory by long ranging saw-like rasping calls. A successful dominant male leopard like this (captured @sabisabireserve) could have up to 3 or 4 females within his expansive range, & to keep them & cubs safe he needs to do frequent patrol & keep intruding male at bay." 
- Walking right into its worst enemy at Etosha National Park, Namibia:
- Face-off with 4 cheetahs at Kgalagadi ('Kalahari') Transfrontier Reserve, near Mata Mata:
Marlon du Toit: " A leopardess on the move in Kenya’s Masai Mara.
If I could choose one area of my photography to improve, it would be that of creativity. I’ve given it much thought. It’s an aspect of my photography that I’d love to improve, but it’s been my choice for the most part to leave this untouched. Reason why ? Simple. Whenever I find myself on safari, it’s typically with guests. My focus, is on the experience of my guests. I’m there to ensure they have the most incredible time & I am there to ensure THEY walk away with photographic gold. Not me. I do steal the odd opportunity to slow my shutter speeds, get a little lower than normal, compose a little different than usual. But to be honest, those opportunities don’t come along all that often. Since our early days at @wildeyesa we’ve adopted the ethos - GUESTS FIRST, ALWAYS. This means our photography takes a backseat. It does not mean I don’t have that creative element within me. Believe me, I see so many photo opportunities go amiss purely because it would mean I’d have to put my needs ahead of my guests. That’s not something I am willing to do. (Good photo guides will understand this) Ask yourself the same question. What can YOU improve on? Don’t settle on a “style” as per say. Keep learning, keep playing. Have fun while you’re at it." |
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