SNOW LEOPARD (OUNCE) Panthers uncia MAMMAL Order Carnivora Description 4-5 ft long, tail 3 ft; 90-110 lbs, males slightly larger. Pale gray shading to white on belly; head and lower limbs marked with solid black spots arranged in rows; body covered with medium brown blotches ringed with dark brown. Tail round and heavily furred. Ears with black edges. Winter coat lighter. Range Altai Mts. (Soviet Union & Mongolia), Hindu Kush Mts. (Afghanistan) and Himalayas (Western China & Tibet). Status This species is listed as endangered and commercial trade of this species is prohibited by international law. Poaching has declined in recent years, but in less rugged areas of the species' range, wild prey is being killed by hunters or forced out by livestock. Lincoln Park Zoo is a member of the snow leopard Species Survival Plan group. ==>> Conservation Spotlight Photo © James P. Rowan Photography

Ecology Habitat scattered high mountain forests and steppe, below the permanent snow line, between 5700-18000 ft, lower elevations in winter.   Niche carnivorous: primary prey are mountain sheep, but also eats small mammals and birds. Usually stalks prey, then springs from 20-50 ft. away. Solitary; most active early morning, late afternoon and evening. Territories relatively small and overlapping, but altitude variation provides large surface area and increases effective territory size. Life History Mating season Jan-Mar; gestation 3-3.5 mo. 1-4 cubs born blind, remain with female through their first winter, mature at about 4 yrs. Life span up to 15 yrs. in captivity. Special Adaptations Mottled spot pattern camouflages animal in dark, alpine forest snow cover. Densely furred tail aids in balance and provides extra protection from the cold when wrapped "muffler style" around the face. Paws covered by a cushion of hair which provides warmth and acts as a snowshoe by increasing surface area in contact with the snow. Superb jumping ability helps animal to pounce on prey from great distances. Eyes in front allow for depth perception and ability to judge distances when pouncing on prey. Forepaws equipped with long, retractile claws help to grab and hold prey. Rough tongue designed to peel skin of prey animal away from flesh, and flesh from bone. Loose belly skin allows animal to be kicked by prey with little chance of injury.