Leopard Claw

Just like other big cats, leopards have needle-sharp, curved claws. The leopard’s claws are about 1 inch (2.5 centimeters) long. The leopard’s claws are used as weapons for fighting and hunting and as tools for climbing trees. They are also used to communicate messages to other leopards by scratching marks on tree trunks.

The leopard’s claws are usually retracted into paws to protect them from wearing down or becoming injured. This retraction also helps the leopard to approach silently when it stalks or sneak up its prey. When it is ready to pounce on its prey, the leopard will extend its razor-sharp claws which enable it grab and hold its prey firmly.

Leopards keep their claws sharp by scratching them on rough surfaces such as tree trunks. Leopards usually try to avoid fight with other strong animals such as lions, tigers, or group of hyenas, wild dogs, and baboons. If they are cornered, their sharp and strong teeth and claws may give their enemies a lot damages. Leopard claws, bones, and teeth are ground up and are used as ingredients in some traditional Asian medicines.