The Fur of This Rare and Elusive Leopard Creates an Amazing 3D Illusion

The cloud-like spots are also perfect to create another sort of illusion – perfect camouflage. Image credit: Dr. Raju Kasambe
Officially recognized as a species in 1821, the clouded leopard is just as mysterious today as it was 200 years ago. The little we do know about these majestic cats comes from caring for them in zoos. Despite their elusiveness, however, their total population is estimated to be less than 10,000 mature individuals, scattered in the remaining dense forests from the foothills of the Himalayas through mainland Southeast Asia into South China.

Having adapted to a life in the trees, clouded leopards are exceptional climbers. They can reach great heights in forest trees, and are incredibly nimble at staying above ground. Helping them are rotating ankles which allow them to climb headfirst down a tree, something very few cats can do.

These animals also have super long teeth, including the largest canine teeth in proportion to the skull among all cats. This trait, which allows them to haul prey much bigger than themselves into a tree, has earned them the nickname “Modern-day saber-tooth tiger.”