Prowling Leopard.

Prowling Leopard.

Leopard ( Panthera pardus kotiya) - Among nine sub species Panthera pardus kotiya belongs to the family Felidaeis present in Sri Lanka.
The adaptability to tolerate different habitats from rainforest to desert terrain and the opportunistic hunting behavior of the leopard greatly contribute to them successful survival in diverse landscapes. Its ability to run at speed of 60 kmph and its unique climbing habits even when carrying a heavy carcass and ability for stealth are positive features for survival. They are powerful swimmers too.
When come into this wild image - this was day time and the fully grown Male leopard was about to drink water from an edge of the " Villu" habitat.
I had the golden opportunity to capture the guy, with the very great assistance of the Safari Jeep Driver / Guide - Veteran wildlife man - Mr. K.B.K. Upulwila from Nochchiyagama - a village close to the boundary line of the biggest national park in
Sri Lanka - WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK.
I am extremely happy over these Two captures of the Big Cat because, that was first time where I took my Brand New NIKKOR 200-500mm, Super Telephoto Lens to the WILDS.
It was a One Day field visit to the park with a Group of 25 ( Twenty Five) Participants, organized by the Nikon School in Sri Lanka.
Among the Nature Lovers only Four (04) of us had the golden opportunity to capture the moving Big cat - The Pride of WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
SRI LANKA.
Equipment used : Nikon D 7100 + NIKKOR
200-500mm. Super Telephoto Lens.