Ghost of the Mountains
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Snow leopards have evolved to live in some of the harshest climates on planet earth, being able to endure temperatures as low as -40°F. Having the densest fur of all cats, snow leopards are kept warm from the freezing cold.
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Not only that, but snow leopards inhabit the highest altitude of any cat with some living at altitudes as high as 20,000 feet. Snow leopards developed large nasal passages and large chest cavaties to give them inhanced breathing at such high altitudes.
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With their thick white-gray coat spotted with large black rosettes, snow leopards blend in perfectly with Central Asia's steep, rocky, and snowy mountains. This incredible natural camouflage renders them almost invisible in their surroundings, giving them the nickname "Ghost of the Mountains".
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Snow leopards tails are actually used as a balancing tool. With the thickest and longest tail of all big cats, their tails get as long as 90% of their bodies. This long tail acts as a counterweight for the snow leopard, helping them hunt agile prey in Central Asia's rugged environments.