The leopard in this short video clip looks very at ease both climbing up a tree trunk and relaxing in the branches. The ease with which it scales the vertical trunk is astonishing. But why does such a large, land-based feline do this? What does it do in trees, and why is it such a good climber? Here we will reveal the facts about leopards and their lives in trees.
Why Do Leopards Climb Trees?
Leopards (Panthera pardus) are able to live in a few different types of habitats, but they are most common in mesic woodlands, grassland savannas, and forests. They favor habitats that have some sort of trees. Leopards move very comfortably around the lower forest canopies, where they have an excellent vantage point to spot potential prey. They can also scan the air for the scent of other leopards and can rest safely away from larger and potentially threatening animals. Trees are generally cooler than the ground, which leopards also find pleasant. Younger leopards will climb trees to amuse themselves and play.
Dragging Prey Into Trees
Leopards are carnivores and are ambush predators. They try to get as close as they can to the prey and then pounce. These big cats are not fans of chasing things, so if the first pounce is not successful, they often give up. They hunt medium-sized ungulates such as small antelopes and gazelles as well as primates. In addition to larger prey, leopards also eat birds and rodents. Once they have secured a meal, it is typical to see them carrying it to a secluded location where they can enjoy it in peace. This location is often in a tree! They are so good at climbing that they can get up the tree while carrying a carcass in their mouths. There are also reports of leopards caching carcasses in trees and then returning to hunt more. This is a very grisly sight if you happen to stumble across it, but it means that their meal is safe from hyenas or other scavengers.
Built for Climbing
Leopards are very agile.
©Pavith Malaka/Shutterstock.com
A leopard’s physiology is perfect for climbing trees. Their bodies are lighter compared to lions, for example, who will sometimes climb trees but are not as comfortable doing so. Leopards have powerful muscles around their shoulders and forelimbs so they can lift themselves vertically. Also, they have very sharp claws that grip the bark.
A leopard’s skeleton is also adapted for climbing. They have a reduced clavicle (collarbone), which allows for greater mobility of the shoulder and forelimbs. Their spine is also very flexible. Finally, they have a long and slender tail, which is very useful for balancing.
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