Snow Leopard

at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens

Quick Facts

Latin Name: Panthera uncia
Diet: Carnivore
Lifespan: 15 - 18 years
Size: Height: 55–65 cm, Length: 90–115 cm, Tail: ~100 cm

Weight: 60–120 lbs
Habitat: High mountains
Range: Central Asia: Afghanistan, China, India, Mongolia, etc.
Conservation Status (IUCN): Vulnerable

The IUCN Red List is a critical indicator of the health of the world’s biodiversity.

About Our Snow Leopard

The snow leopard is one of the world’s most iconic and elusive big cats, known for its thick, spotted fur and secretive nature. Native to the rugged, high-altitude mountains of Central Asia, these cats are perfectly adapted to cold, harsh environments. But despite their wide range—stretching over two million square kilometres—their numbers in the wild remain dangerously low. Experts estimate that only 3,900 to 6,400 snow leopards still roam free.

Here at Thrigby Hall Wildlife Gardens, we’re proud to be part of efforts to safeguard the future of this endangered species. Our snow leopards have bred successfully as part of a carefully managed conservation programme, with two cubs born in 2015 and another in 2022. These breeding efforts are part of the European Endangered Species Programmes (EEP), which aim to maintain genetically healthy captive populations while supporting global conservation initiatives and education.

Unlike other big cats, snow leopards can’t roar. Instead, they use a distinctive, piercing yowl—so loud it can be heard over rushing mountain rivers—to communicate across long distances.

Help Protect Snow Leopard - Adopt Today!

You can support the care of this incredible animal by adopting one today. Animal adoptions at Thrigby Hall help fund essential food, care, and conservation efforts. Adoptions make a thoughtful gift and are a great way to support endangered species.

Adoptions