Searching for the Snow Leopard: Guardian of the High Mountains

by Shavaun Mara Kidd (editor)

A stunning visual and personal journey in search of the iconic big cat, the snow leopard.The snow leopard, known as the ghost of the mountains, is an elusive predator that has captured the human imagination for eons. Yet, by nature secretive, living at altitudes of up to 19,000 feet in one of the world's harshest environments, it is notoriously difficult to see. Those lucky enough to encounter one speak of the experience as momentous, transformative, even spiritual. In this handsomely illustrated, eloquent book, published in partnership with the Snow Leopard Conservancy, world-renowned wildlife photographers, naturalists, and conservationists take the reader closer than most humans will ever get to knowing snow leopards and understanding why these beautiful big cats have for so long been considered the most mysterious of all.More than 130 breathtaking photographs—all taken in the wild, and none with camera traps—accompany personal narratives and anecdotes that convey the experience of learning to see; the patient pursuit, following the tracks and other sign for a momentary glimpse; an unexpected encounter; watching the predator hunt; a magical moment with a mother and her cubs. A special "seek and find" section challenges readers to spot the snow leopard—to discern camouflage from rock and snow. The text also relates the natural history of the snow leopard, its cultural significance and place in lore, its interactions with local peoples, and information about its conservation.Royalties from the sales of Searching for the Snow Leopard support the Snow Leopard Conservancy and its programs.

Genres: Nonfiction

236 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 6, 2020

Reviews

[Wendelle]

Grand photo book of different expeditions tracking the magnificent and elusive snow leopard! It is uniquely adapted to the hard terrain of the 'roof of the world', having among other things a tail as long as its body for use as its own furry blanket

[Becky Norman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful descriptions of how the spiritual and natural blend together when trying to capture the snow leopard on camera. Gorgeous photographs not only of the cats, but of their prey and their environment, with lots of informative details about the leopards and the people who live in their world thrown in, too.

[Marcus Workman · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has become one of my favourite books in my collection, the photographs are breathtaking and I really appreciate the fact that they only used images of wild snow leopards throughout. The photographs were also taken manually without the use of trail cameras or drones and remain unenhanced which really gives the reader the experience of seeing a snow leopard in the wild.
The different researcher’s and photographers stories were beautifully written and my favourite was Jak Wonderly’s. They all really captured the mystery of the ‘Ghost of the Mountains’
Couldn’t recommend this book more, will look stunning on any bookshelf/ coffee table! As well as being a really interesting read!