10 Countries with the Largest Populations of Elusive Snow Leopards

Snow leopards, elusive mountain ghosts, inhabit remote Asian ranges. Discover the top 10 countries with the largest populations and unique habitats, highlighting conservation efforts and wild beauty.

1. China Approximately 4,500

Home to the largest snow leopard population, China shelters them in Xinjiang, Tibet, and other mountainous regions with diverse habitats.

2. Mongolia Approximately 1,000

Mongolia’s Altai and South Gobi mountains offer harsh terrain and sparse vegetation, ideal for snow leopards and conservation efforts.

3. India Ranges from 500 – 720

Snow leopards roam Himalayan states like Jammu & Kashmir and Sikkim, with conservation driven by Project Snow Leopard initiatives.

4. Nepal Ranges from 301 – 400

Nepal’s rugged Himalayas provide perfect habitat, with strong community-led conservation in Annapurna and Kanchenjunga areas.

5. Kyrgyzstan Approximately 285

Kyrgyzstan’s mountainous landscapes support a healthy snow leopard population, protected by national parks and wildlife programs.

7. Afghanistan Approximately 200

Afghanistan’s remote mountain areas host around 200 snow leopards, though conflict limits conservation efforts.

8. Tajikistan Ranges from 250 – 280

Tajikistan’s Pamir Mountains provide critical snow leopard habitat, supported by conservation initiatives focused on anti-poaching.

9. Kazakhstan Ranges from 100 – 120

Kazakhstan’s mountainous regions harbor a smaller population, with ongoing efforts to monitor and protect these elusive cats.

10. Bhutan Approximately 134

Bhutan’s pristine Himalayan habitats support snow leopards, with national parks prioritizing wildlife preservation and eco-tourism.