Snow Leopard

Snow Leopards are one of the rarest and least known of the big cats.  These magnificent predators (from the roof of the world) are rarely seen in the wild because they are found among the highest mountains.  These Asian cats live in the Himalayas and other high mountain ranges up to 20,000 feet.  A Snow Leopard’s thick coat helps it to stay warm in sub zero temperatures.  Its pale color helps it to blend in or camouflage among rocks and snow.

Physical Description

Snow Leopards have long thick pale gray fur patterned with large rosettes and spots and whitish bellies.  They have gray-green eyes, short rounded ears, short legs, wide paws and a very long thick tail.  This tail helps them to balance when they make leaps of over 30 feet.

Family Life

Mother Snow Leopards normally give birth to 2 to 3 cubs.  The young will stay close to the den for the first 3 months.  After 3 months the cubs will join mom outside of the den.  Over time they will join her on hunts and learn the ways of the wild.  Cubs will go out on their own at the age of 2.

Diet

Yak (wild cattle), Bharal (wild sheep), Markhor (wild goats), Ibex, Musk Deer, marmots, hares, mice and birds