Snow Leopards
The secretive rulers of the mountains
This reclusive cat is rarely seen in the wild, thanks to its ability to move silently and blend in with its surroundings. Preferring rocky outcroppings, a snow leopard moves through its territory on powerful legs that are capable of jumping 50 feet. A snow leopard is an expert hunter, able to kill prey three times its own weight.
- IUCN Red List Status: Vulnerable (at high risk of extinction in the wild)
- Type: Mammal
- Habitat: Mountain ranges across Russia and Asia
- Diet: Carnivore – blue sheep, mountain ibex, and marmots
- Size: 4 to 5 feet long
- Weight: 60 to 120 pounds
facts about our animals
Fun Facts about Snow Leopards
Snow leopards use their tails for balance and to wrap around themselves for warmth.
Their wide feet are covered with fur and act as natural snowshoes.
A snow leopard’s spots will grow lighter in winter.
Snow leopards can purr like housecats.
A snow leopard’s tail can be as long as their bodies.
In spite of their name, snow leopards are more closely related to tigers than they are to leopards.
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