The snow leopard is related to the common leopard of Africa and Asia, but because its way of life and general appearance are so different it is regarded as a separate species.

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Overview

Snow LeopardOrder: Carnivora

Family: Felidae

Species: Panthera uncia

IUCN Red List status: Vulnerable

Population Trend: decreasing

Distribution: Central Asia; Mongolia, China, Afghanistan, Nepal, Pakistan and Russia 

Habitat: High up in rhododendron forests and above the tree line, living in caves in the rocky cliffs. Usually solitary.

Description: The leopard's thick fur is about 5cm long along the back - 10cm long underneath. The coat is a soft ashy-brown colour with black rosette markings.

Size: Body Length - 1.2 to 1.5m (4-5ft). Tail - 90cm (35.5ins). Weight: 25 - 75kg

Life-span: Approx. 20 years in captivity.

Food: Wild sheep and goats, deer, wild boar, small mammals and some birds.

Read More: Appearance

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