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The snow leopard (Panthera uncia), also known as the ounce, is a large cat native to the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia. It inhabits alpine and subalpine zones at elevations from 3,000 to 4,500 m (9,800 to 14,800 ft), ranging from eastern Afghanistan to Mongolia and western China. In the northern range countries, it also occurs at lower elevations.

Taxonomically, the snow leopard was long classified in the monotypic genus Uncia. Since phylogenetic studies revealed the relationships among Panthera species, it is considered a member of this genus. Two subspecies were described based on morphological differences, but genetic differences between the two have not been confirmed. It is therefore regarded a monotypic species.

The morphology of the snow leopard's larynx means it cannot roar, despite possessing partial ossification of the hyoid bone like the other pantherine species.

The snow leopard is similar in appearance to a leopard, but with grayer fur and some subtle differences in the spots. They are often drawn with a base color that is anywhere from a bluish-gray to snow white.

See also:

• mammal
• felidae
• pantherinae
• (Neofelis)
• clouded_leopard
• sunda_clouded_leopard
• (Panthera)
• jaguar
• leopard
• lion
• tiger
• snow_leopard