Leopard

Leopard

Species	feline
No. Appearing	1–2
Behaviour	social (family)
Range	alpine, desert, jungle, rainforest, savanna, steppe, veldt, woodland
Size	28 in. at the shoulder
Weight	190 lbs.
Intelligence	3
Armour Class	6
Hit Dice	3+2
Action Points	6
Max. Stride	21
THAC0	19
Hp/Die	d8
Attack Forms	3: two claws; fangs
Damage	claw (1-4); fangs (2–8)
Special Attacks	pounce, raking, surprise on a 1–3, surprised only on a 1

The leopard thrives across a wide variety of climates, ranging from sub-arctic regions to tropical environments. Notable species include the snow leopard (also called the Amur leopard), the Javan leopard, the black panther, the Arabian leopard and the commonly recognized African leopard. These majestic animals possess soft fur with colouration that varies from nearly white to yellowish and dark golden tones, adorned with distinctive dark spots forming rosettes. Leopards living in colder northern climates develop longer fur to adapt to their environment. Their natural colouring and stealthy behaviour make them exceptional at hiding, enabling them to surprise prey with remarkable ease.

The male leopard is approximately 40% larger than the female, often weighing between 100 and 200 pounds, compared to the female's average range of 60 to 120 pounds. Despite this size difference, both share the same number of hit dice, reflecting their equal lethality in combat. Their bodies are built for stealth and power, with short legs that allow them to move low to the ground and a long, muscular frame that provides balance and agility. The leopard's large skull houses strong jaw muscles, contributing to an exceptionally powerful bite capable of crushing bone.

Leopards are inherently solitary animals, avoiding prolonged interaction even with their own kind. Males and females typically come together only for mating, after which they separate. The responsibility of raising cubs falls entirely to the female, who must protect and nurture her young until they are capable of fending for themselves, often around 18-24 months of age.

If a leopard is captured as a cub and properly raised by someone skilled in animal training, the creature can grow into a tame and loyal adult. Such leopards have been kept as pets by nobility and wealthy individuals throughout history, valued for their grace, beauty, and hunting prowess. However, this taming process requires consistent care and attention, as the leopard’s wild instincts can resurface if it feels neglected or threatened. Properly trained, these animals have been used to hunt, guard, or serve as symbols of power and prestige.

Advantages

Leopards are exceptionally skilled at climbing trees, frequently resting on branches and using their elevated position to ambush prey. A leopard can rush forward at great speed and leap four combat hexes in addition to its normal movement, enabling it to close the distance with prey rapidly. This leap can also be executed between trees, allowing the leopard to position itself above a target and drop down, surprising its victim.

In combat, the leopard uses both its claws and fangs to attack. If it successfully strikes with both front claws, it can deliver two additional raking hits with its rear claws, each inflicting 1-6 damage reflexively.

Highly attuned to its environment, the leopard is exceptionally difficult to ambush, being surprised only on a 1 in 6. This keen awareness, combined with its agility and powerful attacks, makes the leopard a formidable predator in its natural habitat.

See Bestiary