This protective mom kept her cub hidden from view, as she showed the hyena who was boss.
She had been lying in the tree, under its shaded cover, when she had spied the lone hyena walking in the distance.
Mother hyena spies hyena threat in the distance
The hyena was walking quite purposefully through the bushveld terrain. Its movements didn’t go undetected by the leopard mother, which was reclined in one of the larger trees.
As natural climbers, leopards are familiar with climbing trees, and quite comfortable seeking refuge in their branches. This is where the mother and her cub had settled for the day.
They were enjoying some peaceful rest until mother spotted the hyena. Hyenas have been known to prey on vulnerable animals, including cubs.
Leopard cub hidden from sight while action unfolds
While leopards are typically solitary animals, they will make an exception for their cubs. They typically have two to three cubs, however, this mother had just one.
The mother leopards will hide their offspring in dense brush, caves or rocky crevices to protect them from predators. This mother’s cub remained relatively hidden among the tree’s foliage while the action unfolded.
On seeing the hyena, she gave a growl, warning the stealthy creature of her presence.
Leopard cubs will typically stay with their mothers until they are around 18 to 24 months. They are typically weaned at around three months of age. However, the mother and cub retain a strong bond and this was evident by the mother’s fierce defense of her little one.
Leopard puts on a show of aggression for her cub
The hyena had found itself in the wrong place at the wrong time. As it walked across the veld, not only did the leopard growl at it, but she started to descend from the tree at lightening speed.
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She wasn’t taking any chances on the hyena getting close to her cub.
The hyena did an about turn and started to run, with the mother leopard hot on its heels.
She chased the opportunistic animal away with speed and determination.
All the while, the cub remained hidden. The small animal was well-protected when its mother was around.
The hyena lingered a little while, sensing the cub. However, the mother’s relentless love for her cub and her resultant aggressive behaviour eventually scared the animal away.
The cub watched from the refuge of the tree, as the hyena left the vicinity with its tail between its legs.
For the adult leopard it was another day of motherhood and ‘business as usual’. Mother leopards will vehemently defend their young against potential threats and today, this spotted hyena came a little too close for her liking.
Once the threat had gone, the young leopard could be seen. The cub was safe and the mother had once again, shown her mettle as ‘Mom’.
This beautiful sighting is a reminder of the intense bonds which exist between animals and their young. Also, of the lengths a mother will go to chase away threats and ensure the security of her cubs.