Leopards are known to be opportunistic hunters. They will take almost any prey and that is what allows them to be the most successful of all the big cats. But imagine how surprised we were to find a leopard in the tree tops feeding on a vulture. Now, we didn't see the kill occur and so I don't know where exactly the kill was made. Since there was no nest I don't think this was a juvenile snatched from a nest and it looks like the carcass is a bit high to have been stashed there so I suspect it was killed there. Maybe the leopard took advantage of some roosting vultures that were there from a previous kill.
So, while not the greatest images, sometimes documentary shots add to our understanding of predator-prey relationships.
Eric
Major_K wrote:
Awesome documentary images Eric. Now, were there gun shots before you got there, ?
Khai
Khai, we were certainly lucky to see this but I often wonder what other amazing things I've missed by seconds or just taking a left instead of a right.
Eric
tfoltz wrote:
Eric, what a great find
Thanks Tim...we waited over an hour hoping the leopard would come down and hunt some impala that were nearby...no such luck so we left it high in the tree with its bird lunch.
Eric
KCollett wrote:
It he dry environs, it seems the cat was getting sufficient moisture. Good looking, and interesting set Eric.
The cats can get most of the moisture they need from the blood of their prey. However they often will go for a drink after eating lots of protein...so guides will head to a nearby waterhole after watching lions or leopards finish a kill. Glad you liked them.
Eric
Frogfish wrote:
Excellent find, thanks for posting.
Have to admit I was wondering how the leopard got an elephant up the tree (#1 - don't look too close)
Hehe, I think a crane and not a crowned crane. would be needed for a haul that size.
Eric
jdc562 wrote:
Does KFV do home delivery? Nice shots, nice documentation, and the leopard looks pleased.
---John
I think this one is supersized and original recipe too! Thanks
Eric
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