The leopard is a large spotted cat. Once, it could be found throughout Eurasia and Africa. It has since been extirpated from Europe, much of Asia, and parts of Africa. The leopard is adaptable and wiley, capable in surviving in most environments and more adpatable to human persecution than many other large carnivores.
The leopard has a diverse diet, typically taking a varity of antelope, swine, monkeys, baboons, apes, rabbits, rodents, and birds. In prehistoric times, the leopard was a major predator of early humans, and although modern (and even neolithic) technology greatly reduced the threat, leopards do occasionally become frightfully efficient man-eaters.
The leopard is an agile and adept climber. It is frequently seen lounging high in the boughs of large trees. It has a curious habit of dragging its prey up into the branches, above the reach of other carnivores (such as hyenas or lions) that might try to drive the leopard away and steal its kill.
Leopards are among the stealthiest of the cats. Their spotted coats and natural cunning allow them to remain hidden seemingly in plain view.
Leopards are normally solitary. Each leopard has its own territory, which is marked by scent and clawed bark and defended against others of the same sex. The territories of males are larger than those of females, and overlap with several female territories.