Queen Of The Canopy

Nanji is 15 years old this year, and over time she has become one of the most adored animals at Cango Wildlife Ranch. Her calm, watchful presence reminds visitors just how extraordinary leopards are.

Leopards in the Wild

African Leopards (Panthera pardus pardus) are some of the most adaptable big cats in the world. They can survive in forests, mountains, savannas, and even semi-deserts. Solitary and secretive, they rely on patience, stealth, and camouflage to thrive. But despite their adaptability, they are under threat from habitat loss, poaching, and conflict with people, and are now listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Why Trees?

Leopards are famous for their love of trees, and for good reason. Trees give them the perfect place to rest, away from disturbance, while the branches act like natural hammocks, supporting their muscular frames. High vantage points also provide safety and a good view of their surroundings. In the wild, leopards even use trees to store food, keeping it out of reach of scavengers like hyenas.

Nanji’s Throne

For Nanji, that favourite tree is more than just a perch - it’s her throne. Visitors often catch her napping, stretching, or peering down with half-closed eyes as though she’s keeping quiet watch over her kingdom. It’s in those moments that her wild nature shines through, even here in a safe space.

Nanji is more than a beautiful leopard. She is an ambassador for her species, teaching thousands of visitors each year why leopards matter, why their habitats must be protected, and why every species has a role in nature’s balance.

At 15, Nanji continues to inspire awe, respect, and love. And for us at Cango Wildlife Ranch, every glimpse of her in that tree is a reminder of why we do what we do.