Indian leopard

The Indian leopard (Panthera pardus fusca) is a subspecies of leopard found in India. Leopards, in general, are large cats closely related to lions, tigers, and jaguars. Historically, their geographic range spanned much of Africa and Asia, but by 2019, they had lost up to 75 percent of their former territory.1

Leopards vary in size, typically weighing 50 to 90 kg (110 to 200 pounds) and measuring about 210 cm (84 inches) in length, excluding their tail. Their coat is usually yellowish above and white below, marked with dark rosettes. These adaptable predators are solitary and primarily nocturnal, often storing their kills in trees. They prey on a variety of animals, from rodents to antelopes, and have been known to attack livestock and, occasionally, humans.1

While the overall leopard population is considered vulnerable, the Indian leopard subspecies is estimated to be increasing, with roughly 9,800 individuals. A black form of the leopard, known as the black panther, is also common, particularly in Asia.1