Karnataka's rich biodiversity has captured global attention once again with a groundbreaking discovery. An ultra-rare leopard, boasting a stunning pale reddish-pink coat, has been documented in the state's Vijayanagara district. This marks only the second such recorded sighting in India and the very first for Karnataka.
A Coat Coloured Like Sandalwood
Conservationists have aptly named the big cat the "Sandalwood Leopard", drawing inspiration from Karnataka's cultural and ecological heritage. Its distinctive coat resembles the hue of sandalwood, adorned with light-brown rosettes, a dramatic departure from the typical tawny fur and black rosettes of common leopards (Panthera pardus).
The landmark discovery was made by conservation scientist Sanjay Gubbi and his team from the Holematthi Nature Foundation (HNF) during an extensive study on leopard diversity across Karnataka. The animal, identified as a female approximately seven years old, was captured on camera traps. One poignant image also shows her with a cub that displays the normal tawny coloration, confirming she is successfully breeding.
A Global Rarity and Genetic Mystery
Internationally, such unique leopards are often called "strawberry leopards". Globally, this specific colour morph has been documented merely five times: twice in South Africa, once in Tanzania, and now twice in India. The only previous Indian record was from the Ranakpur region in Rajasthan's Pali district in November 2021.
Scientists attribute the extraordinary coloration to a natural genetic condition. "This individual's pale reddish-pink coat is likely due to a genetic condition involving either excess red pigmentation (erythrism) or reduced dark pigmentation (hypomelanism)," explained Sanjay Gubbi. The research team, which includes members like Sandesh Appu Naik, Shravan Suthar, and Poornesha HC, emphasizes that while the visual evidence is strong, definitive identification of the exact genetic mechanism would require molecular analysis using non-invasive DNA samples like scat or hair.
Highlighting Karnataka's Leopard Diversity
This find underscores the remarkable and often under-appreciated diversity within Karnataka's leopard population. The state is already renowned for hosting one of the country's highest densities of melanistic leopards, popularly known as black panthers. The discovery of the Sandalwood Leopard adds another extraordinary layer to this ecological tapestry, proving the region's critical importance for conservation.
Researchers caution that the current assessment is based on photographic evidence, and it is most accurate to describe the animal as a rare colour morph until further genetic studies can be conducted. Nonetheless, this sighting is a powerful testament to the hidden wonders within India's wild spaces and the continuous need for dedicated scientific exploration and habitat protection.
