Africa:
* Sub-Saharan Africa: This is where the highest concentration of leopards exists. They can be found in various habitats, including savannas, forests, mountains, and even near human settlements. Countries like Tanzania, Kenya, South Africa, and Botswana have substantial leopard populations.
* North Africa: While less common, leopards are still found in some areas of North Africa, like the Atlas Mountains of Morocco and Algeria.
Asia:
* India: India has a significant leopard population, particularly in the Western Ghats and Central India.
* Southeast Asia: Leopards are found in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. They inhabit a variety of habitats, including rainforests, mangroves, and mountainous regions.
* China: The Amur leopard, a subspecies found only in the Russian Far East, also has a small population in northeastern China.
Overall:
* Forest habitats: Leopards are particularly well-adapted to forests, where their spotted camouflage helps them blend in and ambush prey.
* Mountainous regions: They are also found in mountainous areas, where they can exploit diverse vegetation and prey.
Important note: Leopard populations are declining in many areas due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these magnificent animals.