Snow

leopard The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) is an endangered wild cat native to the mountains of central Asia. It is a keystone species of its ecosystems, playing a vital role in regulating the population of medium and small-sized prey animals, thereby maintaining the balance of the food web. It is also an apex predator, helping to suppress the population of potential disease carrying animals such as rodents. Snow leopards are also popular sources of tourism income in certain regions, as well as a symbol of conservation and a reminder of how human activities can affect wildlife.