The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is a majestic yet elusive predator of the Himalayas, Altai, and other mountain ranges in Central and South Asia. With its thick, pale fur patterned with dark rosettes, the snow leopard is perfectly adapted to its cold, rocky habitat.
A solitary hunter, the snow leopard preys on mountain sheep, ibex, and other ungulates, using its powerful legs to leap across great distances. It is listed as "Vulnerable" due to habitat loss, prey depletion, and poaching. Conservation programs are crucial to preserve this beautiful species, often called the "ghost of the mountains" because of its elusive nature.