The Snow Leopard or Ounce (Uncia uncia) is a large cat native to the mountain ranges of central Asia. Until recently many taxonomists included the Snow Leopard in the genus Panthera with several of the other largest felids. It is not a true leopard.
Weighing up to 75 kilograms, it can be distinguished from other similar species by its proportionately longer tail, which helps it maintain its balance on the often steep slopes of its mountainous environment, and is used to cover its nose and mouth in very cold conditions. Its big furry feet act as snowshoes, like those of the Lynx. In summer they usually live above the tree-line on mountainous meadows and in rocky regions at an altitude of up to 6000 m. In winter they come down into the forests at an altitude of about 2000 m. They lead largely solitary lives.
Snow Leopards have gray-and-white fur with numerous rosettes on the flanks and spots on the head and neck, similar to jaguars. Tails are striped. They are opportunistic feeders, eating whatever meat they may find; they often kill animals three times their size, including domestic livestock.
The Snow Leopard is an endangered species whose pelts command a very high price in the fur market. During the 1960s total population went down to 1000 animals, but has recovered meanwhile to more than 6000 animals.
Snow Leopards are successfully being bred in captivity.
The Snow Leopard is a national symbol for Tatars and Kazakhs, and a winged Snow Leopard is found on Tatarstan's coat of arms.
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