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Clouded Leopard

Rain Forest

Tropical rain forests receive more than 100 inches of rainfall a year, and sometimes almost
as much as 400 inches. These warm, humid regions are found near the equator. They house
about half of the globe’s plant and animal species—including many that contain yet-to-be-
discovered substances that may cure human disease such as cancer. The forests also influence
Earth’s weather patterns, and mitigate climate change by absorbing large amounts of carbon
dioxide and producing about 20 percent of the Earth’s oxygen.
Follow the path in this exhibit through the mid-levels and the canopy of a tropical rain
forest in Southeast Asia. You’ll meet some of the fascinating animals that live there and learn
about incredible adaptations that enable them to survive in their forest habitat. You’ll also
learn about the vital roles they play in sustaining their rain forest ecosystem.

Clouded Leopard

Despite its name, this animal is not a leopard, but a separate
species of wild cat. “The clouded leopard is the most agile climber
of all cats and they’re known to walk straight down a tree trunk,”
said Wanner. “It’s pretty amazing to watch them.” This cat can
also hang upside down by its hind legs and shimmy along the
underside of a tree limb. These feats are made possible by rotating
ankle joints in its hind feet and sharp, retractable claws. Its strong
short legs, large broad paws, extra-long tail, and beautifully
patterned coat make balancing in the treetops while stalking prey
easy. Although it’s small in size, the clouded leopard can bring
down large prey. Its canine teeth are 2 inches long—about as
long as the canines of the much-larger tiger. It also has an
unusually wide jaw opening.

36 GATEWAYS | KNOW YOUR ZOO