Anton & Michelle Campbell-Harris sent their video of the incident to Latest Sightings. They filmed it at a water hole in the Kruger National Park, South Africa.
Sun-bathing snake
As we join the action in the video, we see a South African rock python basking in the sun on the bank of a water hole. As we watch, we hear Michelle asking if the leopard has been seen. Anton says it hasn’t.
As it happens, the spotted cat had also taken an interest in the large reptile.
Curious cat
In the next scene, the leopard has made its way down to where the snake is sunning itself. Warily, it approaches and begins to inspect the python.
Subsequently, after initially appearing confused as to which end to tackle, the cat heads over to the snake’s head.
However, it doesn’t receive a friendly welcome. As the python strikes defensively, the leopard jumps back in alarm.
On the offensive
Undeterred, the leopard then strikes out with its paw, hoping to hook the snake by the head.
Evasive action
However, the snake manages to evade its claws. Subsequently, it slowly turns, intent on moving away from the predator.
Unsurprisingly, the leopard is not about to give up so easily. It makes its way down the embankment to block the python’s escape.
Successful strike!
Now, standing in front of the snake, the leopard once again swats at the snake’s head.
This time, it is successful, and in an instant, the leopard has the snake by the neck.
Time to eat
Eager to devour its unusual meal, the big cat then runs towards Anton and Michelle, who continually express their amazement at what they are witnessing.
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Fight for freedom
As the leopard prepares to feed, the snake begins to struggle. Unfortunately, what follows is obscured by some branches, but the net result is that the snake is let go.
Suddenly freed, the python attempts to move away from its aggressor. Consequently, the leopard seems at a loss for how to proceed with its reptilian prey.
Initially, the snake lies motionless on the embankment while the leopard looks on uncertainly.
A short while later, it is the snake that seizes the initiative. Launching itself, it lands in the nearby water and tries to swim away.
In response, the leopard makes its way down the slope in pursuit. Unfortunately, it soon disappears from view, and we don’t get to know the outcome of the interaction.
Catholic cats
More so than any of the other big cats, leopards enjoy a wide variety of prey items in their dietary menu. Referred to as a catholic diet, it consists of a remarkable 90 different species of animals.
For the most part, they hunt various antelopes, such as duiker and impala. Warthogs and porcupines are also regularly targeted.
In addition, they hunt various primates, rodents, birds, insects, fish, and, as seen in the video, reptiles. This variety enables them to thrive in diverse habitats, from deserts to jungles, including on the fringes of human settlements.