1. Fur: Snow leopards have thick, luxurious fur that helps them withstand extreme cold. The dense underfur traps air, providing insulation, while the long guard hairs repel water and snow.
2. Paws: Their large paws act like natural snowshoes, distributing weight evenly and allowing them to walk on top of deep snow without sinking. The fur on the paws also provides extra traction on slippery surfaces.
3. Tail: The snow leopard's long, bushy tail serves multiple purposes. It helps with balance while traversing rocky terrain and dense forests. The tail also provides warmth by wrapping around the body during sleep or rest.
4. Ears: Snow leopards have excellent hearing, which helps them detect prey and avoid predators. Their large, rounded ears are adapted to capture and amplify sounds, even in low-light conditions.
5. Eyes: The snow leopard's eyes are specially adapted for low-light conditions. Their large pupils allow them to take in as much light as possible during the twilight hours when they are most active.
6. Claws: Snow leopards have sharp, retractable claws that aid in hunting and climbing. The curved claws help them grip prey, while the ability to retract them prevents blunting when not in use.
7. Teeth: Their teeth are designed for carnivory. Sharp canines help them kill prey, while molars and premolars are used for cutting and chewing meat.
8. Muscles: Snow leopards have powerful muscles that allow them to make impressive leaps and climbs. Their hind legs are particularly strong, enabling them to jump distances of up to 15 meters (49 feet) horizontally and 6 meters (20 feet) vertically.