A skier was attacked by a snow leopard in China on Friday, January 24th, as they were returning to a hotel in the Talat village area of Koktokay Township. According to Global Times, the victim is in a stable condition following hospital treatment.
The tourist was attacked in a belt of forest along a road. Police were alerted to the incident and the victim was transported to the hospital for treatment. The local forestry and grassland bureau, the public security bureau, and other departments have increased safety patrols, protective measures, and public awareness efforts in the area following the attack.
Authorities are urging local residents and tourists in the area to follow the necessary safety guidelines, keeping a safe distance if they encounter any wild animal and reporting any wildlife incidents to the police.
Snow leopard attacks on humans are extremely rare, with the Snow Leopard Trust stating that there’s never been a verified attack. The animals are much more likely to run away from people than attack, even if disturbed while feeding.
China is home to the largest population of snow leopards in the world, sharing a border with 9 of the 12 other countries where snow leopards are known to live. Their population is spread throughout the southern and northern regions of the country’s western portion.
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Nolan Deck is a writer for Unofficial Networks, covering skiing and outdoor adventure. After growing up and skiing in Maine, he moved to the Denver area for college where he continues to live and work…
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