The Legendary Mountain Hunter: Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)

The Legendary Mountain Hunter: Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia)

Snow Leopard (Panthera uncia) - Detailed Information

Scientific Name: Panthera uncia

Habitat: Mountainous regions of Central Asia (Himalayas, Tibetan Plateau, Altai Mountains)

Size & Weight: Body Length: 90 - 130 cm (excluding tail)

Tail Length: 80 - 105 cm

Shoulder Height: ~60 cm

Weight: 22 - 55 kg (males are heavier)

Lifespan: In the wild: 12 - 15 years

In captivity: Up to 20 years

Diet & Water Intake
What Do They Eat?

Wild sheep (argali), mountain goats (ibex), hares, marmots, birds, and smaller rodents.

What Do They Drink?

Snow leopards primarily get their water from melted snow and the bodily fluids of their prey.

Mating & Reproduction
Mating Season: January - March

Gestation Period: ~90 - 105 days

Litter Size: 2 - 4 cubs

Birth Season: April - June

Parental Care: Cubs stay with their mother for about 18 months before becoming independent.

Hunting & Behavior
Hunting Style:

Ambush predator: Uses rocky terrain for camouflage and silently stalks its prey.

Can leap up to 15 meters (49 feet) to catch prey.

Active Hours:Mainly crepuscular (active during dawn and dusk).

Social Behavior: Mostly solitary, except during mating season or when a mother is raising cubs.

Unique Adaptations

Thick Fur: Provides insulation against freezing temperatures.

Powerful Limbs: Helps in climbing steep, rocky terrain.

Long Tail: Aids in balance and serves as a warm wrap during sleep.

Large Paws: Work like snowshoes, preventing sinking in deep snow.

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