The term “black panther” typically refers to melanistic (black-pigmented) variants of leopards (Panthera pardus) or jaguars (Panthera onca), rather than a distinct species. Here’s a description of these big cats and their typical ranges:

Leopard (Panthera pardus):

• Description: Leopards are large, solitary cats with a distinctive coat pattern consisting of rosettes (ring-like spots) on their fur. Melanistic leopards, commonly referred to as black panthers, have a genetic mutation that causes an excess of dark pigment, resulting in a predominantly black coat. Underneath their dark fur, the rosettes are still visible.
• Range: Leopards are native to various parts of Africa and Asia. They are found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, savannas, mountains, and deserts. The black panther variant of the leopard is most commonly reported in forests, particularly in dense tropical rainforests such as those found in Southeast Asia.
• Counties: Melanistic leopards have been reported in several countries across Africa and Asia, including India, Malaysia, Indonesia, Nepal, and parts of Africa such as Kenya and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Jaguar (Panthera onca):

• Description: Jaguars are the largest big cat species in the Americas, known for their powerful build and distinctive rosette-marked coat. Melanistic jaguars, often called black panthers in the Americas, have a similar genetic mutation that results in a predominantly black coat.
• Range: Jaguars are primarily found in Central and South America, inhabiting a variety of habitats such as rainforests, swamps, and grasslands. They are particularly associated with dense tropical rainforests.
• Countries: Melanistic jaguars have been reported in countries such as Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, and Mexico.

It’s worth noting that the presence of melanistic individuals within these species can vary by region, and they are not exclusive to specific counties. Additionally, the black panther phenotype is a rare occurrence in both leopards and jaguars, with melanistic individuals estimated to make up a small percentage of the overall population.