Black Panther, Sitting

Black Panther, SittingBlack Panthers are large black cats which are 'melanistic' variants of several species of larger cats. Melanism is the occurrence of an increased amount of dark pigmentation in skin, eyes, hair and feathers.

Wild Black Panters in Latin America are in fact black jaguars, in Asia and Africa they are black leopards and in North America they can be black jaguars or possibly black cougars. The idea that Panthers are a separate unique breed of cat in their own right is obviously incorrect.

When closely examined the background colouration and markings which typify each species are still visible although they are somewhat hidden by the excess black pigment 'melanin'. This has been beautifully described as giving an effect similar to that of printed silk.

Panthers it seems do attract a certain amount of intrigue and have been the focus of many mysterious sightings. Such sightings have been recorded in Australia, in the United Kingdom, and in America to name but a few examples. However, investigations generally throw up very little solid evidence that this illusive, roaming black cat is actually a Panther. Perfectly plausible answers as to the 'mysterious black cat sightings' can usually be found. The question is, should we be disappointed or relieved at those findings?

Hansa's sitting Panther soft toy is amazing! His coat is silky and glossy and he has incredible piercing eyes. He is such a handsome chap, no wonder we all love him.

Toys That Teach A great part of Hansa's mission is to educate children and adults alike about the world's animals and so, as well as being very close plush recreations of the original, every Hansa toy comes with a 'Toys That Teach' tag, which describes each animal's:

- Habitat
- Lifestyle
- Gestation period
- Care of young
- Eating habits

So you not only get a wonderful soft toy but also an understanding of the animal and its behaviour in its very own kingdom.