A power animal, leopards are symbolic of ferocity and valor.
Leopards are nocturnal animals, meaning they are active at night. During the day, they rest in thick brush or in trees. Leopards are solitary, preferring to live alone. They are very agile and good swimmers. They are able to leap more than 20 feet.
LEOPARDS ARE SLAUGHTERED FOR THEIR PELTS
20,000 Skins Used in Ceremonials
2,500 Slaughtered Every Year
Elusive with lightning-speed agility, leopards are the most fierce skilled hunters.
A power animal, leopards are symbolic of ferocity and valor. Leopards are solitary animals and are the most elusive of large carnivores, seemingly challenging to locate in the wild. They are the most persecuted of the large cats and exhibit a reputation as wanton killers.
Why Are They Killed ?
Leopards are slaughtered for their widely sought after pelts. Their body parts — claws, whiskers, and tails are popular fetishes. Their skin is used to make coats and ceremonial robes for cultural and religious attire.
How Are They Being Conserved ?
Zulu church is now replacing leopard pelts with faux fur to help protect and conserve the leopard population.
Leading Buyer Of Skin
Shembe African-initiated church
Species Threats
Illegal Wildlife Trade, Human-Leopard Conflict, Habitat Loss