A rare black leopard has been photographed in an Indian nature reserve, drawing attention for its striking appearance.
The leopard, named Bagheera after the character from Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book, was spotted by wildlife photographer Haritri Goswami during a visit to Peach National Park in southern India.
Bagheera’s distinctive dark coat results from a genetic condition known as melanism, which causes an excess of dark pigment in the skin, fur, and eyes. This condition is essentially the opposite of albinism.
Scientists suggest that this rare adaptation might give the leopard an advantage while hunting at night by blending seamlessly into the forest’s shadows.
Although sightings of black leopards are uncommon, they have been recorded in other parts of Asia and Africa.
Just last month, a black leopard was photographed in Kenya, and earlier this year, two black tigers were spotted in Nandankanan National Park in eastern India.
Peach National Park, home to Bagheera, is often called the ‘Land of Mowgli’ due to its rich wildlife, including a tiger reserve.
Some believe this area inspired Kipling’s book, although Kipling never visited the park.
Bagheera’s appearance is particularly exciting for park officials, who believe this could be the same leopard spotted two years ago in November 2020.
After a long absence, she has returned to the reserve, delighting wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
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