Habitat:
Tropical forests, mountainous areas, savannas

Activity period :
Mainly active at night, generally discreet during the day.

Identification and description:
The Indian leopard is a striking big cat with a golden coat covered in black rosettes. Highly adaptable, it inhabits a wide range of environments—from forests and hills to open plains and even areas near cities across India. Mostly nocturnal and solitary, it preys on a variety of animals. Within this subspecies, melanistic individuals—known as black panthers—do exist. These leopards have a genetic mutation that gives them an entirely black appearance. While rare, black leopards are regularly observed in certain regions, particularly in the humid forests of the Western Ghats.

Recommended lens:
400 mm – adjust based on distance, desired framing (portrait or habitat), and approach conditions.

Photography tips:
To photograph the Indian leopard, it is advisable to use a telephoto lens of at least 400mm to capture detailed images from a distance. Since leopards are primarily nocturnal, plan outings early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Be patient and discreet, as these felines are naturally wary. Use a tripod to stabilize your camera and adjust ISO settings to compensate for low light.