
On a hot July afternoon in the Klaserie Private Nature Reserve, Candice Pappin was fortunate enough to catch the activity of this gorgeous leopard while it was catching fish.
Candice watched this leopard grow on the reserve, so she knew his habits well. On this particular day, she noticed the big cat had made several trips to this small water area.

The leopard returned to the water for several days, waiting for the perfect moment when the water was so low that all the fish would be grouped together.
“I knew he was waiting for all the fish to be huddled under the log, so I kept coming to check on him…”
The wait paid off as the fish were forced into the small pond, surviving only because they had adapted to living in low water levels.
As the big cat waited for his opportunity, a couple of warthogs had decided to move in for a drink. The leopard spotted them, but before he could act, the warthogs escaped.

The big cat returned to the puddle, where the excitement had stirred up the fish. As the fish kept rolling in the water, the leopard approached.
For several hours, the big cat had caught 11 fish, dragging them from the water and placing them in various locations.
The Hunter, Not the Hunted
Leopards are fierce hunters who excel at stealth movement and patience. These traits enabled this cat to wait for the fish to be vulnerable before moving in for the attack.
These big cats usually travel alone, so they must perfect their hunting skills. The leopard’s large claws and massive jaws, combined with critical thinking and speed, allow it to take down its prey skillfully.

Typically, leopards are nocturnal animals, hunting their prey with keen eyesight while their prey sleeps.
Leopards usually pray upon large game such as impalas, gazelle, or antelope but have also been known to feed on smaller prey such as rodents, monkeys, or fish.

Leopards are at the top of the food chain, so typically, they don’t have predators. However, if the conditions are right, they could be prey for hyenas, tigers, or lions.
Common Sense Around Leopards
There are few reports of leopards attacking humans, but due to the expansion into this cat’s natural habitat, Some attacks involving humans and livestock have been reported.
November 2024 reported that a leopard killed a 7-year-old boy in Prune, India. Another attacked and killed a 52-year-old woman in Nelamangala, India
To keep yourself safe around leopards, do not travel solo, stay with a guide, do not leave food lying around, and avoid traveling in the early morning and at dusk.
While leopard attacks are rare, being aware of your surroundings is essential. Leopards are just as wary of humans as we are of them unless provoked.
If you happen to find yourself in the company of a leopard, the best thing to do is remain calm. Hold eye contact while making as much noise as possible, and make yourself look large.
Leopards are beautiful cats, but they are wild. Always keep your distance from these untamed animals and admire their beauty from a distance.