Wildlife Photographer Waits 6 Days To Capture The Perfect Shot Of A Black Panther And Leopard Pair
The miracles of nature often go unnoticed because of the intense metropolitan lifestyle of the big cities with their huge buildings, heavy traffic, and crowds of people always rushing around everywhere. Fortunately, some talented people manage to capture these miraculous moments and scenes in nature to remind everyone of how fascinating nature can truly be. One such moment was when a black panther and leopard were spotted together, but the panther seemed like the leopard’s shadow at first glance.
An Indian-based wildlife photographer named Mithun is one such person. His passion for wildlife particularly includes big wild cats, especially leopards. Majestic photos of these wild kitties can be seen on his Instagram account, and people enjoy his iconic pictures. His photography account currently has more than 140,000 fans. But, recently, Mithun managed to capture an unusually rare sighting of a black panther and leopard duo wandering the jungles of South India.
The photographer declared, “The woods are mysterious, and to unlock that is my passion”
“The element of surprise” is one of the things Mithun loves about photography. Mithun declared that his passion was to unlock the mysteriousness of the woods. This desire is fueled by the fact that he can never know what he may encounter at every bend in the jungle.
He explains how people have to wait for days, and sometimes even months or years, for one perfect shot. When that moment arrives, every second is magical and is worth living for even after that time passes. He says, “That is the beauty of wildlife photography.”
Mithun shared one of his recent photos of a leopard and its black panther shadow
Mithun was able to capture one of the most remarkable photos in which you can not only see a leopard, with the black panther camouflaged, right behind her. In this shot, the male black panther seems like the female leopard’s shadow.
The two big cats in the picture also appear to be staring at the camera. After sharing this rare photo, it went viral in no time as it only mesmerized people with its spectacular view. The combination of a black panther and leopard is truly a rare sight.
From the very beginning, he had a preference for leopards
For Mithun, leopards became his first love among all the wild cats. He prefers taking pictures of big wild cats, but he has a specific inclination towards clicking photos of leopards in particular. He came to be fascinated by their agility and grace.
He said: “I would spend hours watching them lazing on a tree with their little ones. Have named and followed their individual journey in Kabini for the last 12 years now. It all started with one of my favorite Leopards whom I called ‘Monk’ (a big male) and ‘Moon’ (the female), and their generation still going strong now”.
The photographer added another photo of the panther drinking water
Another photo of the panther, this time alone, drinking water and with his reflection in the water, was shared by Mithun, which went viral a few years back. He now wants to support and help spread awareness and conservation of leopards through his works.
In his eyes, leopards are the most neglected big cats across the world. They are in constant danger because of conflict with humans on the edges of the forests. He expresses how he wants people to realize the beauty and grace of this amazing feline species and the importance of their role in the ecosystem.
Mithun’s journey began in 2009 when he picked up his first-ever camera
Mithun was born in rural South India and spent most of his childhood exploring the jungles. This is where he developed a passion for wildlife and big cats. Realizing this passion from a very young age, he grew up to view photography as a means to immortalize the moments he witnessed in the wild.
In 2009, Mithun picked up his first-ever camera, and as luck turned in his favor, he got to witness the magnificent sight of a huge male tiger swimming and wading through a flowing river with ease. At this moment, he understood his destined path in life.
Mithun called their duo “The Eternal Couple”
Mithun stated: “I can still close my eyes and relive that moment every single day of my life. You don’t see that often. Probably a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity”. Mithun had to wait for 6 days in one spot to capture this resplendent pair. He remained in that particular spot because he had heard the two big cats mating in the distance of about 100 meters away in the thick undergrowth. But, due to poor visibility, he was unable to see them.
Since the black panther and leopard couple had made a large kill, they would move away only when they were done feasting. It was here that Mithun’s knowledge and years of experience of following and tracking the panther came in handy. He knew that he needed to wait on one of their favorite parts because it was also situated quite close to the edge of his territory. However, after 6 days, he managed to capture this tantalizing moment. He also said, “I could wait for 6 years for a moment like this”.
Wildlife photography may be dangerous, but Mithun absolutely adores it
Wildlife photography can be considered a really dangerous activity for many. But, when you know your limits, you have already won half the battle as this is one of the most important facets in this field.
Mithun explains how these big cats are generally more scared than shy. If you are a wildlife photographer, you should know that you need to give these creatures some space to allow them to get comfortable with you. His secret was revealed when he said, “The secret is patience and respect.”
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