A snow leopard resting among pale rocks
Photo: Irbis1983 · Public domain
Mammal

Snow Leopard Facts

Panthera uncia

MammalCentral and South AsiaCarnivore

Snow leopards are elusive cats adapted to the cold, rocky mountains of Central and South Asia. Broad paws and powerful hind legs help them cross steep slopes and deep snow.

Habitat
Mountain
Diet
Wild sheep, goats, marmots, and hares
Lifespan
15–18 years

Snow Leopard Facts at a Glance

Snow leopards are elusive cats adapted to the cold, rocky mountains of Central and South Asia. Broad paws and powerful hind legs help them cross steep slopes and deep snow.

It belongs to the family Felidae in the order Carnivora. This profile is designed as a concise starting point; source links below support further reading.

Snow Leopard Habitat

Snow Leopards live in Mountain and Alpine habitats across Central and South Asia. Their range depends on places that provide suitable food, shelter, and conditions for raising young.

What Do Snow Leopards Eat?

Snow Leopards are carnivore animals. Their diet includes Wild sheep, goats, marmots, and hares, and the food available in their habitat shapes how they find, hunt, or forage for meals.

Snow Leopard Lifespan, Size, and Weight

A snow leopard typically lives for 15–18 years. Adults measure about 90–115 cm and weigh around 22–55 kg; these ranges can vary with sex, age, habitat, and access to food.

Snow Leopard Conservation Status

Snow Leopard is listed here as Vulnerable. Protecting habitat, maintaining healthy prey or food sources, and reducing human pressure are important parts of conserving wild populations.

Quick facts

Region
Central and South Asia
Habitat
Mountain, Alpine
Diet
Carnivore
Lifespan
15–18 years
Size
90–115 cm
Weight
22–55 kg

Fun facts

  • Their wide paws distribute weight like natural snowshoes.
  • A long, thick tail provides balance and can wrap around the body for warmth.
  • They cannot roar like lions, but communicate with yowls, growls, and chuffs.
  • Large nasal passages help warm cold mountain air before it reaches the lungs.

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Sources and image credit

Animal facts are reviewed against the references below. The photograph remains available under its linked license.