Warning Sign

Kush, a snow leopard (Panthera uncia) at Jungle Cat World, displays a flash of teeth while face-rubbing against a rock.

Snow leopards are usually quite shy so it is not uncommon for them to show aggression to humans, even among captive cats. However, Kush is still familiar with us which is why she is seen here affectionately face-rubbing. It's an interesting juxtaposition which shows how complex these cats can be. I believe Kush likes it when myself and another volunteer show up (reinforced by enrichment and food, of course), but she's always willing to let us know when we are getting too close for comfort.

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Snow leopards are found in mountainous central Asia, also called "the roof of the world". They are acclimated for some of the harshest terrain and climate in the world and are extremely elusive. Sadly, snow leopards are not elusive enough to escape the hand of man. They are an endangered species and there may be as few as 3,000 left in the wild with populations decreasing. Individuals are often the victims of revenge killing after taking village livestock, poaching for their bones and skin, prey depletion and habitat loss.

Please visit [link] for more information on snow leopards and how you can help.