XX 



Leopards 



TI I K leopard undoubtedly plays the principal role 

 among all the; beasts ot prey to be found in 

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

 where. 'I he 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 lor settled 

 haunts, though they are chiefly to be found in rocky 

 mountain-passes where there is plenty of cover. They 

 arc' fine climbers, and often pass the day in the airy and 

 shady heights of a tree-top. 1 know of a case ot a 

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

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

 and I have: heard ot several other such occurrences. 



It is difficult to give an idea of the lightning speed 

 VOL. ii. 397 3 



