The Ascent Plush

“Historically, it was almost impossible to track snow leopards. Until the late 20th century, little was known about snow leopard biology; these elusive cats inhabit remote mountainous regions that are often difficult for researchers to access. However, successfully tracking these animals provides valuable insights into their behavior, movements, life strategies, and interactions with the human landscape. As conservationists gather more information about snow leopards, they can develop and implement more effective measures to protect these magnificent creatures.”

To learn more, visit our partner directly at snowleopardconservancy.org.

“Snow leopards are tracked by direct and indirect methods. In direct tracking, snow leopards are captured and fitted with GPS satellite collars, which typically stay in place for about a year, transmitting the animal’s location on a predetermined schedule.

“However, due to the remote habitats of snow leopards and the high costs associated with collar-based tracking, researchers often employ indirect methods. These include the use of motion sensor trail cameras that capture both still photographs and videos to record the presence of snow leopards. As these cats are solitary and home ranges seldom overlap, it is possible to track movement patterns of individual animals through these images. Researchers also look for physical evidence of snow leopards, such as pug (or footprint) marks, scat, and scent markings. Indirect tracking allows researchers to gather important data on snow leopard presence and behavior, especially when direct tracking is impractical.

“The tracking for this animal uses some known historical locations and extrapolates others based on known behaviors (snow leopards move to lower altitudes during the colder months as they follow their prey, they can stay at a kill site for several days, but can travel many kilometers in one day, as well). To safeguard these elusive cats from potential poaching threats, we have deliberately chosen not to disclose exact locations in our tracking data.”

To learn more, visit our partner directly at snowleopardconservancy.org.

“Indirect tracking (trail cameras, sign, and scent surveys) has no effect on the snow leopard as there is no contact between people and the cat.

“Direct tracking (GPS collaring) does require a cat to be tranquilized and handled. During this procedure, researchers place the collar, collect blood samples for health assessment, and take weight and body measurements. While any anesthesia carries a minimal risk, it’s important to note that no snow leopard has ever suffered harm from this process. Furthermore, the collar is designed to not interfere with the cat’s regular activities. Snow Leopard Conservancy does not collar the cats but will utilize the data from organizations and national agencies that do collar.”

To learn more, visit our partner directly at snowleopardconservancy.org.

Snow leopards are big cats with thick, white-gray or yellowish coats dotted with black rosettes (spots) that help them blend into their mountain habitats. Their extremely long, fluffy tails enable them to keep their balance when running and jumping, and serve as a source of extra warmth in freezing temperatures when wrapped around their bodies. Snow leopards’ paws are also quite large and furry—they act as built-in snowshoes and prevent the cats from sinking in the snow.

The smallest of the big cats, snow leopards measure about 39–51 in (100–130 cm) from the tip of their nose to the base of their tail, and weigh anywhere from 55–115 lb (25–52 kg).

Wipe with damp sponge or cloth, using warm water and mild soap. Once dry, brush to restore the plush and proceed with snuggling.

Mountainous habitats mean snow leopards use their leaping skills a lot more than their speed to catch prey within short distances. Depending on their long tail for balance, the snow leopard has been known to jump distances of up to 30 ft (9.1 m). That’s roughly as long as a 3-story building is tall!

Human conflict as a result of livestock depredation, habitat loss and fragmentation, loss of prey populations, illegal poaching, and disease are just some of the threats snow leopards face that contribute to their endangered status.