THE BUSHWHACKER

Thre is a popular misconception that a leopard lies motionless, camouflaged and almost invisible along the branch of a tree conveniently over a game trail from where he will drop or spring on his unsuspecting prey. In reality, a leopard will normally take to the trees either with its kill to protect it from scavengers or to take advantage of cool breezes in the heat of the day or to escape danger such as a lion. Most of his hunting is done at night and often well away from the thick cover which is his usual haunt. This title, therefore, may seem misleading but this leopard had been lying in the cool of his treetop when a movement caught his eye - perhaps a situation worth exploiting - so he will snake his way to the ground hoping to stalk and capture whatever potential prey he has seen.