Researchers have discovered the presence of incredibly rare black leopards in Kenya.
San Diego Zoo scientists confirmed their presence after planting remote cameras in Laikipia County.
The researchers were carrying out a study to understand the basic population dynamics of the creatures when a melanistic leopard showed up on the footage.
Nicholas Pilford, of the Institute for Conservation Research, said it was an important discovery because it showed black leopards have been in the region “for a long time”.
He said: “Regionally we’ve heard reports of black leopards living here in Kenya, but high quality footage or imagery to support these observations has always been missing.
“That’s what we’ve provided here with our cameras, and now we’re able to confirm what has been long suspected about black leopards living in Laikipia County.”
Melanism is a gene mutation where the coat appears completely black in the daytime, but infrared imagery reveals the leopard’s iconic rosette patterns at night.
The zoo said the sighting renews the importance of developing a conservation programme that protects the species in the area.
