The Black Bengal, or melanistic Bengal occurs on occassion in Bengal litters. Both parents must carry for the recessive in order for a melanistic Bengal to appear in a litter.

Often times with the Black Bengal, faint ghost markings of spots and rosettes, just like the Black Panther displays, can be seen. The Black Bengal although not accepted for Championship status with TICA, The International Cat Association, is a unique and beautiful cat.

They are not to be considered as "rare". Their rareity ends with the fact that they are not a color breeders desire to further and thus not bred for. They have the same "Bengal" personality, friendly, curious, playful and many do have an affinity towards water.

Black Bengals should still fit the standard as far as body type/confirmation and temperament, although they are unable to meet the required "high degree of contrast" that the standard calls for.

They are sold into non show, non breeder homes as pets.

As stated previously, Black is not a color that breeders desire to further the breed but, on occasion a striking black Bengal appears in a litter to the fortune of a very happy pet purchaser. They are quite cute and impish in appearance!