Which endangered big cat inhabits the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia?

The endangered big cat inhabiting the mountain ranges of Central and South Asia is the snow leopard.

The snow leopard (Panthera uncia) ranges across the Himalayas, Tibetan Plateau, Hindu Kush, Pamirs, Tian Shan, Altai, and other high Asian mountains. Its smoky-gray coat, dark rosettes, thick fur, and exceptionally long tail help it blend into rocky terrain and maintain balance on steep slopes.

Snow leopards prey on wild sheep, goats, ibex, marmots, and other mountain animals, though they may also kill livestock. Their powerful hind legs allow long leaps across ravines, while broad, fur-covered paws act like natural snowshoes.

A common mix-up is conservation status: the species is officially classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN, not Endangered, although it is certainly threatened and protected under CITES Appendix I. It is also not simply a pale form of the leopard; genetic and anatomical evidence recognizes it as its own Panthera species.