snow leopard - Description, Threatened species, Snow leopard in heraldry

A rare big cat (Panthera uncia) native to the mountains of SC Asia, living near the snow line; thick pale grey coat with dark rings (sometimes enclosing small spots); inhabits meadows, rocks, and (in winter) forests; eats goats, sheep, deer, smaller mammals, birds; also known as ounce.

The snow leopard (Uncia uncia or Panthera uncia ), also known in some instances as the ounce, is a large cat native to the mountain ranges of central Asia.

Description

Weighing up to 75 kilograms, the snow leopard can be distinguished from other similar species by its proportionately longer tail, which helps it maintain its balance on the rugged terrain and unstable surfaces of its habitat.

Threatened species

The snow leopard is a threatened species whose pelts command a very high price in the fur market.

Much progress has been made in securing the survival of the snow leopard, with snow leopards being successfully bred in captivity.

Snow leopard in heraldry

The snow leopard (almost invariably known in heraldry as the ounce) (Aq Bars) is a national symbol for Tatars and Kazakhs: a snow leopard is found on the official seal of the city of Almaty, and a winged snow leopard is found on Tatarstan's coat of arms.