Adapted to high altitudes, the Snow leopard can be distinguished from other similar species by its proportionately longer tail, which helps it maintain its balance on the rugged terrain and unstable surfaces of its habitat.
The Snow leopard's tail also doubles as a warmth cover and is used to cover its nose and mouth when sleeping in very cold conditions.
They have a dense coat, which doesn’t tend to molt because of the harsh climatic conditions they live in.
They also have very large paws that act as ‘snow shoes’. Other special adaptations include large lungs to make the most of the oxygen at high altitudes.
Did you know that an important aspect of the work of modern zoos is to have active involvement in research? Here at Paradise, we assist in many research projects which can contribute to animal welfare, understanding of animal behaviour, and conservation.
Panja was born in 2011 in a zoo in the Czech Republic. He joined us here at Paradise in 2013 on recommendation from the breeding program coordinator. Following this, in 2015, Jessie moved in to keep him company. They have become Paradise Wildlife Park’s power couple.
Panja is a very relaxed cat and likes a quiet life. However, Jessie brings out his playful side (sometimes reluctantly), and together they make a dynamic duo. He can be very nervous about anything new in the habitat, so he usually waits for Jessie to investigate first, until he is convinced it is safe! Although the quieter of the two, everyone who meets him falls in love with his gentle nature and happy rumbles.
2 years ago… Jessie became a viral sensation across the world with this hilarious reaction to seeing a CCTV camera for the first time.
Jessie has become loved across the whole park and even the world, with her playful antics. From her zoomies around the habitat that she loves to show everyone, cuddles with her partner Panja, to her love of enrichments; especially pinatas containing her favourite snacky snacks.
