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Alaska Zoo
The Snow Leopard (Uncia uncia or Panthera uncia), sometimes known as the Ounce, is a large cat native to the mountain ranges of central and southern Asia. The taxonomic position of this species has been subject to change. In the past, many taxonomists included the Snow Leopard in the genus Panthera, with several of the other largest felids, but later it was placed in its own genus, Uncia. However, most recent molecular studies place the species firmly within the genus Panthera, although the exact position remains unclear. Along with the Clouded Leopard, it represents an intermediate between so-called big cats and smaller species, as it cannot roar, despite possessing a cartilaginous hyoid apparatus which is thought essential in allowing the big cats to roar.
Well known for its beautiful fur, the Snow Leopard has a soft grey coat with ringed spots and rosettes of black on brown. The fur turns white in the winter. Its tail is heavy with fur and the bottom of its paws are covered with fur for protection against snow and cold. The life span of a Snow Leopard is normally 15-18 years, but in captivity they can live up to 20 years.
snow leopard / Schneeleopard / L'once (Panthera uncia), aussi appelée irbis, panthère des neiges ou léopard des neiges / Panthera uncia
Taken at the Wildlife Heritage Foundation where they breed animals for relase into the wild
D200 and 70-200VR
Through the Munyawana Leopard Project, Panthera is carrying out innovative leopard conservation work in South Africa's Phinda Game Reserve. CNN Inside Africa recently visited the Munyawana Leopard Project to report on the project’s conservation initiatives, the benefits of wild leopard populations to humans, the threats facing Africa’s dwindling leopard populations, and much more.
Learn more about the CNN program @
Learn more about the Munyawana Leopard Project @ bit.ly/flEZT1.