THE CAMP 



XX 



Leopards 



THE leopard undoubtedly plays the principal role 

 among all the beasts of prey to be found in 

 East Africa. Unlike the lion, he is to be found every- 

 where. The colouring of the leopard, so distinct and 

 conspicuous when seen in a cage, blends so curiously with 

 the animal's natural surroundings as to become almost 

 imperceptible. So much so that, even by day, he is able 

 to pass close to you without being observed. 



Leopards have no special predilection for settled 

 haunts, though they are chiefly to be found in rocky 

 mountain-passes where there is plenty of cover. They 

 are fine climbers, and often pass the day in the airy and 

 shady heights of a tree-top. I know of a case of a 

 leopard springing upon a negro, who was up a mango- 

 tree, and killing him instantly with a bite on the throat ; 

 and I have heard of several other such occurrences. 



It is difficult to give an idea of the lightning speed 

 VOL. II. 397 3 



