Wildlife Photographer Captures Extremely Rare Black Leopard Trying To Hunt A Deer In Indian

Black leopards or melanistic leopards are extremely rare to come across, so they are mysterious in the eyes of humans. There have been a number of reports of black leopards around the world but their exact numbers are unknown, and very few confirmed sightings.

Source: @Caters News Agency

But recently, an extremely rare black leopard was spotted in Tadoba National Park in Maharashtra, India as it tried to hunt a deer. The rare sight was witnessed and captured by Anurag Gawende, a wildlife photographer who was on a safari with his mother and brother. The black leopard was taken in a series of photographs from just 30 feet away.

Source: @Caters News Agency

Gawande said this was his second time that he witnessed it. A year ago, he had spotted a rare leopard but he was still thrilled to have seen it again. The leopard was sharply contrasted against the clay-red road it was crossing. It is the only wild cat of Tadoba national park.

Source: @Caters News Agency

"It was surprising because we thought we will see a tiger but we saw black leopard strolling on the pathway. Then he saw a deer and then he tried to hunt that deer but he failed. Then again it came back on road and sat there for 15-20 minutes and we got some amazing shot of the majestic animal," Anurag said.

Source: @Caters News Agency

"I felt the same thrill while watching it but this time I was aware of its moment. We kept our vehicle off and kept enough distance so that it will not move from the spot," he said.

Source: @Caters News Agency

Indian leopards are listed as a vulnerable species due to habitat loss and poaching. They are in danger because poachers are trying to hunt them for their stunning melanistic black coat. Between 12,000 and 14,000 individuals are believed to live in India.
h/t: Daily Mail