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Can You Spot a Snow Leopard in This Photo? Most People Can’t!

By Orgesta Tolaj

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18 January 2024

spot Snow Leopard

© Saurabh Desai Photography

Spotting a snow leopard in its natural habitat can be a thrilling and rare experience. However, they are known for their remarkable ability to blend into their surroundings, making them difficult to detect even for the most keen-eyed observers. This beautiful big cat, native to the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia, has evolved their spotted fur to help them disappear into the snowy landscapes and rocky terrains they call home.

But what if I told you that most people can’t even spot one in a photo? That’s right, these majestic creatures are masters of camouflage! So, can you find the elusive snow leopard hidden in this photo?

What Is Going on?

A captivating photo of a snow leopard, expertly camouflaged in a rocky landscape with traces of snow, has intrigued and challenged viewers. The image spurred Redditors to test their observational skills by attempting to spot the elusive feline, with the initial post prompting users to share the time it took them to locate it.

Is It Really That Hard to Spot This Snow Leopard?

Contrary to the common assumption that snow leopards are entirely white due to their name, they actually have a coloration that includes light tinges of brown in their fur. They are in fact lighter than regular leopards. However, the misconception that they are completely white might lead people to believe they are hidden in snow-covered surroundings.

spot Snow Leopard
© Saurabh Desai Photography

The well-camouflaged snow leopard, blending into a landscape of light brown rocks and snow, has become an online challenge since it was shared on Reddit six months ago, five years after its first post. The initial post urged users to find the hidden leopard and share the time it took them, and it seems that the challenge continues to engage people as they attempt to spot the elusive creature.

How Did Saurabh Capture the Snow Leopards?

Photographer Saurabh Desai was on a mission to capture images of the elusive big cat known as “Shan” by locals in the region. Spending nearly three years in search of this rare creature, he expressed his desire to portray the animal as locals described it, emphasizing the notion that while people may not often see “Shan,” the cat is always observant of them. Upon finally encountering the elusive feline up close, Desai was left speechless by the experience.

spot Snow Leopard
© Saurabh Desai Photography

Reddit users have expressed frustration and sought help from others in their struggle to spot the leopard in the photo. Some users, after hours of searching, began to doubt the existence of the leopard. They speculated that it might be an elaborate ruse drawing in increasingly cunning participants. Despite the doubts, the assurance is given that there is indeed a leopard in the picture. Some users successfully found it themselves.

People Reacting to the Hidden Snow Leopard

Some of the comments read:

“I am basically blind someone help me.”

“Hour 4, still searching.”

“At one point I thought, is there even one in this picture?”

Some were even smart and quick enough to notice it immediately:

“Like a minute, lol. I thought this was a close-up shot, so I was looking for it in the background.”

“As soon as I stopped looking for a white animal. Very sneaky.”

So, Where Is the Snow Leopard “Hidden”?

The elusive creature, identified as a leopard, can be seen slightly off-center to the left in the image. Positioned just below a significant snow patch, its eyes are visible, peering towards the camera. It may be discernible. However, the observer is cautioned against overconfidence, as the leopard’s stealthy nature can make it challenging to spot it consistently. One look away, and you will lose it again!

spot Snow Leopard
© Saurabh Desai Photography

Were you able to spot this sneaky snow leopard?

You might also want to read: Rare Brown Spotless Giraffe Spotted in a Tennessee Zoo

Orgesta Tolaj

Your favorite introvert who is buzzing around the Hive like a busy bee!

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