LEOPARD LOUNGE A leopard’s pelt is unmistakable, right? Light-coloured with dark spots? Well, not always…
Firstly, many of the “spots” are not spots at all, but rather clusters of black, yellow and tan markings. These are called “rosettes” because they resemble the shape of a rose. A leopard’s dark rosette pattern, combined with its yellow, brown and tan coat, helps it blend in with its surroundings, creating almost perfect camouflage.
In some parts of the world, however, you find leopards that seem to be completely black. These cats have a genetic trait called melanism, which means they produce an excess of dark pigment. Instead of the usual light-coloured pelts, they only have dark fur. Interestingly, their usual rosettes are still present and can be seen clearly under certain light conditions.…
