The Persian leopard is the largest of the leopard species. They measure about 2 to 6 feet lengthwise and weigh anywhere from 60 to 200 pounds! These large cats have tan/brown fur with black rosettes all over their bodies.

Persian leopards are very strong animals, with large canine teeth, a powerful jaw, and sharp claws. The species also has a very long tail to help with balance, which measures between 60 to 75% of its total length!

Persian leopards live primarily in the Middle East, in countries like Turkey, Iran, Georgia, Afghanistan, and more. They mostly reside in temperate mixed forests and rocky, mountainous areas.

The species usually avoids areas with long periods of snow cover and any places nearby with urban development. Persian leopards also have an average range of about 40 square miles.

The Persian leopard is a carnivorous species that prey on many types of animals as they are able to adapt easily to population changes within its prey. Most Persian leopards’ prey consists of the Bezoar goat,  wild boar, deer, gazelles, porcupines, hares, and other species.

Persian leopards, however, will eat whatever the land and habitat they are in has to offer. They use their sharp claws and strong jaws to hunt their prey, large or small. 

The Persian leopard’s mating season lasts from January to February. The female goes through a gestation period of about 3 months, then have a litter ranging from 1 to 4 cubs.

The cubs become independent and leave their mother after about 13 to 18 months. The average lifespan is anywhere from 10 to 15 years in the wild.

Persian leopards are extremely territorial and mark their territory by scraping the ground, tree scratching, and urine spraying. The species is solitary, meaning they live and hunt alone, besides occasionally staying with their mate for a short period of time after mating.

The population unfortunately is decreasing, despite conservation efforts. This is mostly due to deforestation, habitat fragmentation, poaching, and overall human activity.