Leopards (Wildlife Monographs)

Leopards are large feline mammals widely distributed through Africa and Asia, generally having a tawny skin covered with black rosette-like markings. Adult leopards can reach almost two meters in length with a tail half as long again. Females often give birth in a hole in a tree where the cubs will remain while their mother is away hunting. Mother and cubs can stay together up to two years. A litter is usually between four and six. Leopards are carnivorous and hunt mainly at night, but when big game is scarce will eat field mice, porcupines, and even fruit. They are extremely agile and when hungry will often climb trees to catch a monkey. In the book, lavishly illustrated with stunning photographs, the author tells of the Leopard's history, distribution, habitat, diets, social structures and its relationship with Man.