Photographer Captures Amazing Moment Of A Female Leopard Shadowed By A Black Panther

A wildlife photographer has captured on camera incredible photos of a female leopard shadowed by a black panther in Kabini Forest Reserve Karnataka, India. Photographer Mithun H has over time had a passion for the cat family and particularly loves observing them from a distance. His patience and tenacity did, however, paid off as he was able to capture one of his most-loved cat couples in an epic pose.

The Black Panther named Saaya, 8, and the Leopard named Cleopatra, 12, have been a couple for an estimated 4years and indeed the photographer has been close marking them for much longer.

 ‘The female Cleopatra has been a sweetheart of the Kabina reserve and that’s was since 2009. Cleopatra has been watched closely for twelve years since a tiny cub. Saaya came into her life in 2014 as a sub-adult shy panther, who was trying to launch a territory.’ He finally gained his dominance in 2016 and paired up with Cleo. Since then I have followed the pair on their journey. Photographer Mithun explained.

Mithun had filmed the pair together on several occasions, including when they reunite to mate, but evidently this perfect moment was incredibly unique. The photographer patiently waited six days in the same spot with the affectionate couple and luckily witnessed when the pair looked straight into the camera as they walk past it.

‘I can close my eyes and clearly recall the precious moment every single day. It’s not seen often, probably a once-in-a-lifetime chance. This is undeniably where knowledge and years of experience, including tracking the panther came in very handy. I had to patiently wait at his favorite paths knowing he would get her to the edge of his territory.  He eventually did after six days and it was a fruitful wait.’ Mithun added.

Nevertheless, Mithun hopes his work will help raise a campaign about the leopard conservation as he revealed they’re the most neglected of the big cats across the globe.