What is the protection mechanism of a snow leopard?

Happy International Snow Leopard Day! The snow leopard (Panthera unicia) is an elusive, majestic animal that lives in the vast landscapes, mainly in the high mountain peaks of Asia and Central Asia. read more

Snow leopards have a tendency to feed at dawn or dusk, making it possible for them to remain hidden from sight. This offers some level of protection against predators or enemies that would otherwise spot them easily. read more

Poaching: Despite protection and prohibition of trade, snow leopard fur is still highly valued on the black market. Loss of prey: Illegal hunting of wild sheep and goat reduces the resources of snow leopards. Conflicts with herders: As their wild prey declines, snow leopards will prey on herd animals, which leads to revenge killings by herders. read more

Conservation biologist and snow leopard expert Jerry Roe also said by email that relabeling the snow leopard as domestic will not resolve the conflict between snow leopards and herders or benefit the species. read more