One of my favorite sightings of all time was this pangolin that Karen and I came across on our honeymoon trip to Botswana. It wasn’t just the pangolin — there was also a young leopard playing with the pangolin as if it was his toy. The pangolin would curl into a ball, using its hard armor for protection. The leopard kept falling asleep and the pangolin would start to sneak away, only to have the leopard wake again and pounce. This went on for a few hours before the pangolin finally outlasted the leopard and made the final escape into the Botswanan night. Nikon D800 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 400, f/5 at 1/400th of a second.
What an extraordinary encounter! A pangolin and a leopard, neither of which are common sightings, and a front row seat to their interactions! Awesome!!
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One of my favorite sightings of all time was this pangolin that Karen and I came across on our honeymoon trip to Botswana. It wasn’t just the pangolin — there was also a young leopard playing with the pangolin as if it was his toy. The pangolin would curl into a ball, using its hard armor for protection. The leopard kept falling asleep and the pangolin would start to sneak away, only to have the leopard wake again and pounce. This went on for a few hours before the pangolin finally outlasted the leopard and made the final escape into the Botswanan night. Nikon D800 with Nikkor 200-400mm lens (at 400mm) ISO 400, f/5 at 1/400th of a second.
Memorable photo, Sean, and a great description of the hours-long encounter! Belated, but best wishes to the Bride & Groom!
What an extraordinary encounter! A pangolin and a leopard, neither of which are common sightings, and a front row seat to their interactions! Awesome!!