Can you spot the well-hidden snow leopard lurking on this cliff face?

At first glance, this appears to be simply a picture of a snowy outcrop.

But take a closer look, and once you spot it, you’ll be amazed you didn’t notice it sooner.

The impeccably camouflaged leopard was photographed in the Himalayan mountain range of North India.

Saurabh Desai, a 38-year-old Indian wildlife photographer from Gujarat, took this stunning photo earlier this year.

He explained, “In pursuit of the world’s most elusive cat, I visited the valley near Kibbar Village, which is the highest village in the world.

“We were around 8 km away from the village in the valley when we could see this highly camouflaged male snow leopard.

“I wanted to portray this animal in its own environment perfectly camouflaged which is an important skill that helps it in hunting.”

Snow leopards are masters of camouflage, a skill that is crucial for both hunting and survival in their rugged, mountainous habitats. Here’s a more detailed look at how snow leopards use their camouflage:

1. **Coloration**: Snow leopards have a smoky-gray coat with black rosettes and spots that blend seamlessly into the rocky background of their high-altitude homes. During winter, their fur becomes even thicker and whiter, matching the snow-covered landscapes, which enhances their natural stealth.

2. **Habitat Matching**: These big cats inhabit the steep and rocky alpine regions of Central and South Asia, where the terrain is broken and rugged. This environment works well with their natural coloration, allowing them to lie hidden from both prey and predators.

3. **Behavioral Adaptations**: Snow leopards are crepuscular, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk when the light is dim, reducing their visibility. Their cautious, slow, and deliberate movements minimize noise and visual detection.

4. **Physical Adaptations**: Their thick, long tails not only help in balancing on the rugged terrain but also cover their tracks in the snow. When resting, they can wrap their tails around their bodies and faces, which helps them blend into their environment even more.

5. **Hunting Strategy**: Snow leopards use their camouflage to stalk prey closely without being noticed. They can get close enough to launch a sudden and powerful attack, typically from above, using gravity to aid their charge.

These camouflage skills are critical to the snow leopard’s survival, allowing them to thrive in some of the most inhospitable environments on Earth.