* Ungulates: This includes animals like antelopes, gazelles, zebras, and even young buffalo.
* Smaller mammals: Leopards will also prey on smaller mammals like monkeys, rodents, birds, and even reptiles.
* Domestic livestock: Unfortunately, leopards sometimes prey on livestock like goats, sheep, and cattle, which can lead to conflict with humans.
Hunting Strategies:
Leopards are highly skilled hunters. They rely on:
* Ambush tactics: They often lie in wait, camouflaged in trees or dense vegetation, and then pounce on their prey.
* Strength and agility: Leopards are powerful animals with sharp claws and teeth, allowing them to take down prey much larger than themselves.
* Nocturnal behavior: Leopards are primarily active at night, giving them an advantage in hunting.
Food Habits:
* Opportunistic feeders: They will eat whatever is available, and their diet can vary depending on the location and prey availability.
* Solitary hunters: Leopards typically hunt alone, except for mothers with young cubs.
* Cache their food: Leopards often hide their kills in trees, protecting them from scavengers and allowing them to eat over several days.
It's important to note that the diet of leopards can vary depending on factors like geographic location, prey availability, and individual hunting habits.