The snow leopard is more than just a cool (pun intended) cat, it is one of the most interesting animals in the world. While part of the feline family the snow leopard has evolved some unusual traits to allow it to survive in such tough conditions. Not only this but it looks incredibly beautiful. Read on to find out more about this wondrous animal:
The snow leopard is different from other felines because of the conditions it lives in. Its paws are bigger and covered in more fur to create a snowshoe for the animal to allow it to move across the snowy plains. A snow leopard’s tail is amazing as well, up to 3 feet long and incredibly thick the tail us used as extra insulation in cold times. The cat can wrap the tail around its whole body for a bit more warmth.
While that is interesting, it is not shocking. One crazy fact about the snow leopard is that it can’t roar! The vocal cords have not developed to allow for roaring. This may lead you to believe these animals are not as ferocious as other leopards, and you would be right! The snow leopard is considered to be very docile. There have been no registered attacks on humans by snow leopards to date! While snow leopards mostly feed on sheep and goats they also eat vegetation very often.
The snow leopard is known to be very shy and elusive. This has given it the title “ghost of the mountains” to those who know it well. Due to its excellent camouflage, incredible stealth, and shy behavior, the animal can be tricky to spot.
One sad fact about the snow leopard is that there are only around 6,000 left in existence as they are in danger from poachers, farmers, and climate change. More must be done to preserve these beautiful animals before they become extinct.
