South African National Parks (SANParks)

Pause of Life

Whilst the sun sneaks across the upper ridge, Mom slinks into its warm rays.
Gently, the light softens her regal presence and strokes her with promise for the day.
She stretches and lifts her tail in a characteristic “C”.

As if on cue, the baby leopard leaps out from the shadows of the cave below.
Its dark pelt still one big blur of spots.
The little one is all paws and pounces on its mom.

Within seconds there’s an energetic rough-and-tumble that ends with the cub on its back.
Tongues wagging, Mom gives some tips and then licks her offspring with tenderness.
Next thing, their paws are swishing out for each other again.

There’s a lesson in everything but in this instance Mom takes a break from routine.
In the pause of the morning’s peace, she’s content to love and play with her cub.
These times are precious.

Suddenly, there’s a rustle from across the ridge and both heads twist to investigate.
With the slightest of movements mother and child float back into the shadows.
There’s no threat but instinct for protection prevails.

Today is similar to any other day…
It is a chapter in life’s teaching,
And it’s one paw print further on the cub’s journey of discovery.