It’s never easy to look after young children, especially for this leopard mom which had a newly born cub so small that it was barely able to move itself, and its spots were only a faint suggestion on its coat.
The pair were spotted by Rumaanah Hajee in the Kruger National Park. Rumaanah was on the H1-1 road, around seven kilometers from the Skukuza turnoff when they saw the leopard in the trees moving parallel to the road.
Stealthily Through The Trees
With its cub secured safely in its mouth the leopard wove its way softly through the trees and shrubs at the side of the road. It didn’t give any indication that it was aware or worried about the vehicle’s presence.
Even ungainly with its load, the leopard still managed to blend in with the long grasses, and all it would take was a crouch to ensure it had completely hidden itself from view.
This stealthiness was essential now more than ever, as there were plenty of rival predators out there that wouldn’t think much of challenging a leopard on its way. With its cub to protect this mom couldn’t risk any threats detecting them and starting a fight.
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Why Did The Leopard Cross The Road?
Although leopards are famous among big cats for their nimble ability to climb trees, their cubs lack the strength to get up there by themselves. In only a matter of months this cub would be able to climb trees by itself but until then it was vulnerable.
Leopards will typically find safe and sheltered spots on the ground to have their cubs. It’s easier than giving birth in a tree, and they’re clever enough to make sure these dens are difficult for others to find.
While it’s not ideal, there are situations that make moving these cubs worthwhile. Perhaps other predators in the area were making a particular den site so risky that the mom decided it was worth moving the cub.
Getting To Grips With Motherhood
When it came to the road itself, the leopard crossed with its signature caution. It quickly made sure that Rumaanah’s vehicle was stopped and allowing it to pass before it started hurrying across.
Except that this leopard decided that the best time to readjust its grip on its cub was in the middle of the open, exposed, and dangerous road. It only took a moment, but the mom put the cub down, readjusted her grip, and then carried on.
Dropping the cub down quickly to get a better hold on it must have been the best option for the leopard to do it there and then. Perhaps the alternative was literally dropping the cub as she ran, and then having to go back for it.
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Safely To The Other Side
With its cub secured again, the leopard hurried off the road and back into the safety of the long grass on the far side. The big cat took a moment to select the best part of the verge to use to disappear into the grass.
Once it had left the road it took only seconds for the leopard to melt safely back into the environment, where she would be able to keep her cub safe, and hopefully raise it to be full self-sufficient adult.
