Snow leopards have carved out their habitats, from the frigid heights of the Himalayas to the vast highland plains. Rarely seen by humans, this elusive predator inspires both fear and fascination. Known as a mysterious hunter, it mesmerises those fortunate enough to catch a glimpse, its appearance both striking and captivating.

Compared to other leopards, snow leopards are exceptionally beautiful and captivating. Their presence fascinates all who see them. They differ from other leopards in body structure, behaviour, and habitat preference. As one of the most striking big cat species, they enthral people worldwide. Their pale, snowy surroundings enhance their allure, leaving those fortunate enough to glimpse them feeling truly privileged.

However, snow leopard conservation faces serious threats from climate change, habitat loss, and poaching. Hemsagar Baral, Nepal representative of The Snow Leopard Trust, USA, said climate change disproportionately affects high-altitude habitats, reducing prey populations and endangering snow leopards. The decline of blue sheep and other prey species has further compounded their challenges.

When food is scarce, snow leopards may leave their usual habitats in search of new ones, exposing themselves to danger. Venturing into new areas can trigger conflicts with other snow leopards or lead to retaliatory killings. Baral emphasised that these risks make their survival increasingly precarious. He urged people to dedicate at least 23 minutes on October 23, World Snow Leopard Day, to raise awareness and support conservation efforts.

Nepal is home to 397 snow leopards, according to data collected from 2015 to 2025 using genetic surveys and camera traps. Studies in areas including Kanchenjunga, Gaurishankar, the Manaslu-Annapurna Conservation Area, and remote regions such as eastern Dolpa, Shey Phoksundo, and Humla helped determine this number. The Department of National Parks and Wildlife Conservation released the report in April-May 2025.

Conservationists are heartened by the discovery of a healthy snow leopard population in Nepal. Naresh Subedi, member-secretary of the National Nature Conservation Fund, said developing snow leopard viewing trails could boost tourism revenue. "Nepal has strong potential for snow leopard tourism," he said. "Tourists willing to pay to see tigers would pay even more to see snow leopards. Linking these trails to local livelihoods could benefit the economy and create jobs."

Globally, 10 percent of snow leopards live in Nepal, despite the country accounting for only two percent of the world's suitable habitat. Around 30 percent of their potential habitats in Nepal are protected, while 70 percent fall outside protected areas, creating additional challenges. Snow leopards are also found in Afghanistan, Bhutan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, India, Mongolia, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan, primarily in the Himalayan and highland regions.