There are currently estimated to be between approximately 3,920 and 6,590 snow leopards left in the wild across their range in Asia's mountainous regions
. More specifically, recent data suggests around 4,000 to 6,500 individuals globally
. The population is difficult to count precisely due to the remote and rugged terrain they inhabit and limited comprehensive surveys
. By country, estimates vary, with China hosting the largest population of about 4,500 snow leopards, followed by Mongolia with around 1,000, and India with approximately 718 according to a 2024 survey
. Other countries have smaller populations ranging from a few dozen to several hundred individuals
. The snow leopard is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN due to threats like habitat loss, poaching, and climate change, despite some localized population increases due to conservation efforts
. Overall, their numbers have declined by about 20% over the past 25 years but are showing signs of stabilization or growth in some areas thanks to protection measures
. In summary, the wild snow leopard population is estimated to be roughly between 4,000 and 6,500 animals, with ongoing conservation efforts critical to ensuring their survival.
