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Zoology

Rare black leopard photographed in Kenya

This big cat, called Giza, has a genetic mutation giving her a distinctive dark coat

By New Scientist

4 February 2026

Giza the black leopard. A British wildlife photographer has captured stunning images of a rare black leopard. Andy Rouse was guiding in Kenya when he spotted the distinctive big cat Giza, a mother living in the Laikipia region. He said:

Andy Rouse/SWNS

Leopards may not change their spots, but they can change the colour of their coats. This rare sighting of a black leopard, called Giza, was captured by wildlife photographer Andy Rouse at the Laikipia Wildlife Conservancy in Kenya. Giza’s distinctive dark fur is the result of a genetic mutation that causes an overproduction of black pigment. However, you can still, just about, see her spots.

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