The black panther is one of the most mysterious and impressive animals in the animal kingdom. Although many people think the black panther is a separate species, it is actually a term used for dark-pigmented individuals of certain felines, usually leopards (Panthera pardus) and jaguars (Panthera onca).

Image of katerina vulcova via Pixabay

Difference between a black panther and a cougar

While black panthers and mountain lions are both impressive predators, there are some important differences between them:

  • Sort : Black panther is a term used for melanistic leopards and jaguars. The puma (Puma concolor), also known as mountain lion or cougar, is a separate species that does not show melanism like leopards and jaguars.
  • Habitat : Pumas are mainly found in North and South America, from Canada to southern Chile. Black panthers, depending on whether they are leopards or jaguars, live in Africa, Asia, or Central and South America.
  • Appearance : Cougars have a plain, sandy to greyish coat with no spots, while black panthers have dark fur with visible spots in bright light.
  • behaviours : While both are solitary, pumas have a wider range of habitats, from forests to mountains and deserts, while black panthers mostly live in densely forested rainforests.

Loading full article...