Snow leopards are mountain cats with thick grey coats and long tails, and they love height. A snow leopard habitat with multi-level rock work, high ledges and a feeder up on the rocks keeps them climbing and keeps guests looking up.
Building for height
- Lots of rock work with high ledges. A "pride rock" style outcrop for them to sit on is a must.
- Climbing structures.
- A netted roof over the habitat. An aviary-style netting roof looks great and keeps them in.
- Tiger rocks (Asian rock pieces) suit the theme.
Rock work tips
- Align to surface is key. Without it, rocks float on slopes.
- Work in layers: big base rocks first, then medium, then small.
- Vary rotation and scale so nothing repeats.
- Check for clipping near walls and paths.
- Cluster pebbles near the big rocks and thin them out further away. Small stone pebble pieces make the biggest difference.
- Wide pieces float on slopes, so shrink them.
Feeding up high
Place a piñata pronghorn feeder high up on the rocks. It spawns food up there and entices the cats to climb. It's a great way to show off their climbing.
Backstage
Real cat centres have backstage holding pens. Build two holding pens with a shutter between them, a keeper hut, feeding pots and bins. It's optional, but it makes the habitat feel professional.
Viewing
- A mound tunnel viewing gallery dug into the hillside, with windows into the habitat, looks fantastic.
- Use soil panels to bridge the gap between path and terrain, since terrain can't go over a path.
- Inside the tunnel, use wood cladding, planters and info signs.
Breeding
Snow leopards breed quickly. I had a cub born while I was still decorating the habitat. Plan space for cubs.
Terrain technique
For natural hills: pull the terrain to max height, then use flatten to foundation at low intensity with quick click-and-drag strokes, then smooth. A few small bumps make it look natural.
Tips
- Snow leopards also fit in a treetop or mountain zoo next to red pandas.
- Feeding time signs near the viewing area add a nice real-zoo touch.