Snow Leopard Essay Example

The Snow Leopard is an almost mythical animal. It is rarely seen and people believe that it is the guardian of the mountains. It is a symbol for some countries and it is often regarded as one of the most beautiful creatures that grace the earth. In the wild there are between 3,500 and 7,000. (Bailey, Jill) This number is not exact because Snow Leopards are very elusive and live in remote, harsh environments. In the zoos across the world there are about 600 Snow Leopards. (Bailey, Jill) The Snow Leopard lives for the most part in the high mountains of Central Asia. (Saving the Snow Leopard) They live in Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Mongolia, Nepal, Pakistan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. (Scherer, Glenn) They are most active at night. While these animals live in harsh environments they are well adapted to them. However, despite the remote area of their habitat’s snow leopards are often poached. The snow leopard is often hunted for its beautiful coat. The snow leopard is a truly magnificent creature that we should make more of an effort to save. Extinction is forever and once gone it will never return. The Snow Leopards habitat is harsh and brutal. Despite these conditions the snow leopard is well suited for it. They have a well developed chest and short forelimbs with large paws that allow them to walk easily on the snow. Their padded paws keep their hands warm and allow them to move stealthily and gracefully to capture their prey. The snow leopards also have thick long fur which keeps them warm in their cold habitat. The fur also helps against the wind. The snow leopards tail is crucial for its survival. The tail helps keep the snow leopard balanced on the treacherous terrain of the mountains. They also use their tails to as blankets to cover the sensitive parts of their bodies. (Bailey, Jill) Snow Leopards have powerful legs and can leap as far as 50 feet. (Saving the Snow Leopard) The snow leopard has powerful claws