Identifiable by its white to grey fur, black rosettes across its body, and black spots on its face, the snow leopard (or Panthera uncia) lives in the mountains of Nepal, Tibet, Northern India, Southern Siberia, Pakistan, Bhutan and Mongolia. The animal’s fur is extremely thick and well insulated, which helps it comfortably withstand sub-zero temperatures as low as -25oC. They mostly feed on mountain goats and sheep, but also hunt birds and rodents.
Latin Name
Panthera uncia
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snow-leopard
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Animal Facts
Snow leopards have very large paws in proportion to their body size that allow them to move quickly and stealthily along the snow.
The snow leopard can jump higher and further than any other cat species; reaching heights of 6m when jumping and distances of 15m when pouncing.
Snow leopards can live at altitudes of 5400m.
Snow leopards are 'crepuscular' animals; they are active at dawn and dusk.
Snow leopards will often hold their own tail in their mouth to use it as a muffler against the wind and snow.