Scar, the resident big male leopard

Over the past few years, a regular leopard (Panthera pardus) to be sighted in the Southern sector of Karongwe reserve is a large male that has unofficially, yet affectionately been named ‘Scar’. We are unsure of his age, but his dewlap and facial scars indicate that he is indeed an experienced ‘Tom’. Previous volunteers will remember him as the leopard that used to hang around the Mundulea Boma when ‘Shiloweni’ was kept there whilst recovering from various veterinary operations. ‘Scar’ has also been sighted mating with a number of females in the South over the years. His name is derived from the numerous wounds he carried, especially over his right eye and on his nose. These were the likely result of encounters with other males and feisty females during mating sessions.

On the 13^th of February 2011, a large male leopard was seen in the Southern sector by a guide, bleeding from head wounds. We presumed this was ‘Scar’ and that his old wounds may have been reopened as often seemed to be the case. Finally, on the 10^th of March 2011, relaxed as ever, he treated GVI volunteers to a fantastic visual. However, it was clear that he was likely to have been suffering from injuries of a more serious nature as he has acquired numerous new scars in recent months. It seems he has lost the use of his left eye, his left ear droops and various large new scars are visible on the left side of his head and neck, adding to those already on the right. Despite this, the wounds seem to be healing well and even if half his sight is lost, his distended belly suggested it hasn’t affected his hunting abilities.

‘Scar’ has well and truly earned his name and continues to show territorial ambitions despite his recent adventures.

Andreas Fox

Conservation Officer and Research Assistant

GVI Karongwe

Scar, the resident big male leopard