Like most of our ideas, some of the best camouflage belongs to what exists naturally. Examples of the idea of hiding in plain sight can be found in animals, trees, plants, insects, and almost all types of creatures, whether it’s by evolving a permanent skin color that reflects less light when deep underwater or having the shape of a stick, we are continuously left amazed at what nature has created. In the animal kingdom, a prime example of this phenomenon are predators such as the snow leopard.
Now, unlike us, who have evolved a mastery of being bipedal and using opposable thumbs, most animals have other traits, such as camouflage, to ensure their survival. A chameleon is probably the first creature that comes to everyone’s mind when talking about the ability to camouflage. However, when it comes to bigger animals, we usually only marvel at the pretty pattern of their skin. We forget that those patterns are like that for a specific reason – to make them blend into their usual habitats.
The Hidden Snow Leopard
In a fascinating picture that is making the internet collectively squint, this phenomenon plays out in full. Take a look at the following image:
Would you believe us if we told you that a snow leopard is present in plain view? That is the truth, and the magnificent animal is nowhere near any kind of cover, be it rocks or shadows. Try your hand at spotting the snow leopard! Of course, their camouflage, in particular, is famous. The WWF calls them the “ghost of the mountains.” Users saw the humorous side of how good the camouflage is by saying: “I would definitely be eaten by the snow leopard” and “There’s no snow and he still blends in!”
With that, here is where the snow leopard is:
Here is some information about snow leopards to go with their beauty. They are naturally found in the mountains of 12 countries: Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Russia, Pakistan, Nepal, Mongolia, Kyrgyz Republic, Kazakhstan, India, China, Bhutan, and Afghanistan. They make their home in some of Earth’s harshest environments. As such, their fur coat is thick and white-gray and has big black spots. At present, their wild population is estimated to be in the range of 4000 to 6500. The WWF classifies them as vulnerable as they are facing high extinction risks outside captivity.
Would you have survived being stalked by a snow leopard? Let us know in the comments! Also, here are some more spotting challenges you might like:
- Test Your Sniper Vision: Spot The Hidden Man in 9 Seconds!
- Only Those With Sharp Vision Can Spot the Bat in This Brainteaser
- Can you spot the animals in these baffling puzzles?