Leopard on Mars

Madikwe, 2018 - This unique wildlife portrait was captured in Madikwe Game Reserve, a hidden gem on the border of South Africa and Botswana. This protected area of wilderness lies on a transition zone where the Savannah Bushveld starts giving way to the Kalahari Desert, which presents unique photographic opportunities of a wide diversity of African wildlife in a rugged, dusty environment.

This shot epitomises that. Abandoned termite mounds or those dug up by Aardvarks (Anteaters) provide a home for up to 27 different species, especially those raising young. A few notable species include Warthogs, Porcupines, Wild Dogs, Hyenas and yes, even Leopards.

On this warm day, a young male Leopard cub had found safety and cool temperatures in one of these holes while his mother was away. His curiosity took over as he kept poking his head out from the hole to have a look our way. The rusty, orange-red clay soil made this look like a scene from Mars.