A leopard may not be prone to changing its spots, but
these markings do di er across the big cat’s body.
‘Rosettes’ can be seen along the animal’s sides, back
and upper tail, while its legs, belly, neck and face have
simple black spots in various sizes. Even their whisker
bases are spotted – as seen here, while this individual in
Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park has a good old
nosy around the camera – creating unique patterns that
Will Burrard-Lucas/naturepl.comcan be used to help with identification.
IN FOCUS^ | Spot the di erence