Balek the snow leopard (Panthera uncia) after being introduced to his new enclosure. After a nervous tour he retreated into the safest place he could identify: the den. He paused to look at his new surroundings before curling up inside where it seemed like he spent every waking moment over the new few months. However, the young, handsome cat eventually came around and now confidently patrols his new territory.

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Snow leopards are found in mountainous central Asia, also called "the roof of the world". They are acclimated for some of the harshest terrain and climate in the world and are extremely elusive. Sadly, snow leopards are not elusive enough to escape the hand of man. They are an endangered species and there may be as few as 3,000 left in the wild with populations decreasing. Individuals are often the victims of revenge killing after taking village livestock, poaching for their bones and skin, prey depletion and habitat loss.

Please visit http://www.snowleopard.org for more information on snow leopards and how you can help.