The Yawning Leopard: In the Shadow of Captivity

The local zoo here is a wonderland right in the middle of a busy city. Among its many fascinating creatures, one creature stands out—not for its aggressiveness, but rather for a strange habit that has drawn visitors from different corners of the zoo: the lazy yawning leopard.

Visitors gather every morning, eager to see the wonders of the animal kingdom, as the sun peaks over the horizon, illuminating the zoo in a golden glow. And, amidst the other animals and birds, resides the yawning leopard, spreading laziness in the morning sun.

However, it is not the elegant motions or sharp stare of the big cat that captivates the masses in the zoo; rather, it is the deep, rich yawn that comes from its lazy mouth like a whispered secret. It is a quiet but enthralling unusual sight that piques everyone’s interest and curiosity.

Among the visitors there were few curious people who were eager to know about the leopard, his presence in the zoo and more. And for which they inquired the zoo keeper present there, who have lived his lifetime taking care of these wonderful creatures.

On asking zoo keeper, why this big cat so lazy, totally different from his personality? The zookeeper replied with a hint of awe in his voice. “It’s not just any yawn, it’s a sign of restlessness, a longing for something more than the confines of captivity.”

As the zookeeper tells stories of the yawning leopard to the visitors present there, of the majestic hunter that once roamed the huge plains of the wild, her roars echoing over the landscape; visitors listen closely, hanging on every word of his.

The zookeeper explained the fact that “here, in the zoo, in this artificial habitat, these powerful animals are just shadows of their former selves. Trapped behind bars, their spirits yearn for the freedom of the open plains, where they could live as they want, hunting, running and more.”

The only way I can see where these wild animals can find solace as they find in the wilds is only if the zoo undergoes a makeover, with new boundaries created to mimic the natural habitats, giving these wild animals ample space to roam and thrive. Then only this lazy yawning leopard could find its restless spirit finally at peace.

After the whole day of witnessing the wonders of animal kingdom visitors find contentment as they observe the big cat enjoying the warm warmth of the lowering sun. These silent creatures not just want freedom from constraints of captivity but also from the bonds of loneliness and longing that formerly bound them.

Every visitor gave the yawning leopard one last glance before the zoo shuts for the evening, with their hearts overflowed with collections of the animal kingdom wonders they had seen. Their excitement was reflected in the lively chatter and laughing. They bid final farewell to the yawning leopard and other animals.

This zoo was the haven of peace right in the middle of the busy metropolis, among the concrete and mayhem, where the new relationships between people and animals are formed every day.