What is the difference between a jaguar and a leopard?
These two spotted cats seem identical, but show distinct differences when viewed in comparison. Both species have distinct builds and generally differing coat patterns. Like all species, these two have a wide range in variation. Keeping this fact in mind, the following description is of the general differences of coats. Some jaguars and leopards may have coats that have less distinction. In general, the jaguar coat has larger rosettes in smaller numbers. The rosettes usually are darker, have thicker lines, and enclose smaller spots. The leopard coat has smaller, more faint rosettes in larger numbers. Leopard rosettes usually don’t enclose spots. One common similarity, however , is melanism : the condition which makes the coat appear black. In both species, the rosettes can sometimes be seen in the right light. More distinct differences are seen in the build of these two cats. The jaguar has an overall more muscular build. The body is compact, and the legs are more stocky than the more
