Leopard Cubs: First Cub at 3 Months

Shot at Chitabe Camp, Botswana in July 2007 with the Canon 1Ds Mark II and 500mm f/4

This was the first time that I ever saw an almost 3 month old leopard cub in the wild. It was my 2nd visit to Botswana in the summer of 2007 (their winter) where they use open vehicles; and, this Mom and cub were only 25 feet away. I was so excited that I could barely function, not to mention I was jetlagged and not ready. I had to move so very slowly while being as quiet as a mouse because I didn't want to spook Mom and miss the shot. The cub was excited as well because Mom had just given it a comatose genet to play with.

Leopard cubs are my very favorite subject to photograph. My heart stopped when this cub put his paw on Mom's leg and leaned in toward us; and, I feel so blessed that I was able to nail this favorite image and magical memory.