Puzzling Presentation!

An interesting revelation from the natural world the article throws a light on one of the many mysteries of nature.

- DR PIYUSH PATEL

In August 2022, during a visit to the Devaliya Park/Interpretation Zone (Gir Reserve Forest) Leopard enclosure, Gujarat, India, a rare and unusual sighting was witnessed. While patiently observing the male leopard enclosure, an unexpected event occurred – two male leopards were seen mating. The scene was both intriguing and surprising, as it is widely recorded that leopard mating typically involves a male and female pair. Same-sex mating is not uncommon in the animal kingdom, with instances of such behaviour documented in various species, including birds like penguins. These behaviours can serve multiple functions, including fostering strong social bonds between individuals, practicing mating behaviours, or even providing care for orphaned or abandoned eggs and chicks.