Snow leopard

Panthera unica

Status

Vulnerable

Activity Period

Crepuscular

Classification

Mammal

Nicknamed the “ghost cat” or “ghost of the mountains”

Snow leopards are known for being very difficult to see and study due to their elusiveness and beautiful coat that blends seamlessly with the rocky terrain they inhabit. (Did you know: Snow leopards can’t roar. They purr, growl, or yowl instead.)

tiger licking cage

Habitat

They tend to live in high alpine areas that consist of broken terrain, cliffs, and ravines that provide the best hunting grounds.

Range

The range of the snow leopard stretches across Asia's central mountain ranges, including the Himalayan Mountains.

Life Expectancy

In the Himalayas, snow leopards usually live 10-13 years. They've lived to be 22 years old under human care.

Diet

Snow leopards are carnivorous and feed on sheep, hares, ibex, and marmot in the wild. At the zoo, they get meat and a weekly bone to help keep their teeth clean.

Social Structure

Snow leopards are a family of one; they only come together for breeding. Females typically care for their young until they are 18-20 months old.

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