After several trips to Africa, I had still never seen a leopard. Being the hardest of the big cats to find, it was not very surprising but was still a goal for this trip to Kenya. My group I was leading told our guide that we wanted to see all of the big cats on this trip, and as we arrived in the Maasai Mara he got word of a leopard being spotted in the area. As we arrived just before sundown, we saw a tree with a wildebeest carcass hanging in it, a sure sign that a leopard was nearby. As we were losing light, we positioned ourselves for the best possible angle and waited, hoping that the elusive cat would make an appearance before we were required to leave. Visitors must leave before dark and the ranger started to flash his lights, telling us it was about time to head back. Just then, movement in the grass gave us hope. The leopard emerged from the tall grass he was hiding in. He quickly made his way into the tree and began feeding on his prize. We were able to make a few photos before it was time to say goodnight. It was truly a gift to be in the presence of such a magnificent cat.

Photos and story by Jennifer Leigh Warner
Kenya | Great Migration: Wildlife & Conservation on Photo Safari with Experience Wildlife