L is also for Leopard, National Zoological Park, Delhi
Leopards have been recorded as long as 2.92 meters but that is extreme, 1.37-1.67 is more common.
Leopards are famous for their ability to go undetected. They may live practically among humans and
still be tough to spot. They are graceful and stealthy. Amongst the big cats they are probably the
most accomplished stalkers. They are good, agile climbers and can descend from a tree headfirst.
Along with climbing, they are strong swimmers but not as fond of water as tigers; for example,
leopards will not lay in water. They are mainly nocturnal but can be seen at any time of day and
will even hunt during daytime on overcast days.
The diet of these big cats is surprisingly varied. However, other prey are included in leopards'
diet. At times they seem to show a preference for canines, even attempting in the past to snatch
dogs right from the feet of their masters. They will eat fish and domestic stock such as goats.
They will even eat carrion, scavenging tiger kills.
Leopards live 21-23 years in captivity. In the wild, life span is not exactly known. Expected
lifespan In wild is 7 to 9 years.
Info from here...
