OUT IN THE OPEN: Leopard in Tanzania's Ndutu Region
- Chelsea Hodgson
- Mar 14
- 2 min read
One of the most elusive of Africa's iconic "Big 5" is the leopard. These solitary cats are most often spotted in the branches of trees or taking shelter atop the many kopjes that dot the landscape.
That's why all of our jaws collectively dropped when we spotted this male out in the open plain.
It was our first day exploring Tanzania's Ndutu Region bordering the Southern Serengeti this past February. The gold and black coat was undeniable as we moved closer and confirmed it was a leopard lying in the grass. Curled up and scanning its surroundings, it was unbothered by our arrival, as well as by the side eye it was receiving from a foolhardy Secretary Bird.
The leopard's focus was off in the distance toward a large herd of calving wildebeest and gazelle. He stood up onto all fours, sending the Secretary Bird's into a clumsy frenzy, flapping its wings and hopping across the ground to create some distance; just in case. The reaction was unnecessary, though, as the leopard only walked closer to a nearby watering hole where it plopped down in a patch of tall, lush grasses, rolled on its back, and yawned.
We kept our proper distance and let the show unfold. The sun was beginning to set and the sky quickly turning a shade of rose pink. Night safari's aren't authorized in this region, so we could all feel the impending need to head back while all knowing leopards are most active at night.
As if he could feel our angst, the leopard stood up, stretched, and began walking directly toward our vehicle.
We made eye contact before the leopard turned to its left and took a seat just inches from our driver side door. He continued to scan the horizon, then walked around the rear of the vehicle and once again sat down on our passenger side.
Just ahead was the large herd of wildebeest, their gutteral grunts and snorts carrying across the air. Thompson's gazelle were grazing on the outskirts. We were downwind of them all, which gave the leopard the advantage as he once again got back to his feet and slowly walked toward them.
He was within 30 or so meters when we saw him drop down into the grasses and become completely invisible.
Our imaginations would have to finish this story, as it was unfortunately time to leave. We and the Nale Moru team begrudgingly made our way back to camp, each imagining how the night would end for the leopard and the gazelle.
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