Leopard
Leopards are one of the most adaptable big cats, found across Africa and Asia in habitats ranging from savannas to dense forests. Their striking spotted coats and incredible stealth make them a favorite among zoo visitors. In zoos, leopards are ambassadors for their species, helping raise awareness about habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
Zoos provide leopards with enriched environments featuring climbing structures, tall grass, and shaded areas that allow them to express their natural behaviors, such as stalking and pouncing. Keepers often hide food in elevated spots to encourage climbing and replicate their natural hunting strategies. Additionally, breeding programs in zoos help safeguard endangered leopard subspecies, such as the Amur leopard.