Cloud leopard

Not to be confused with the clouded leopard (Neofelis nebulosa), the cloud leopard (Neofelis caelestis) is an extremely rare and elusive feline which has only been spotted in the wild by high-altitude hikers on the highest mountains around the world. It is believed to prey upon traveling birds, goats and rodents which it catches from above exploiting the mimetism of its fur pattern against the sky.

This individual is a bit more mundane though, she's the owner of a local biological food store. Since she loves hiking and misty days and has more than enough fur to keep her warm even in cool autumn weather it was the perfect occasion for an outdoor portrait.

Oil painting on canvas, 35x50 cm.