In a rare turn of hope, deep in Russia’s cold forests, a quiet feline comeback is making headlines. Once nearly lost forever, the elusive Amur leopard is slowly finding its way back into the wild.
From the Edge of Extinction
These shy cats live in the forests of Russia and China. Just a few decades ago, only 25 remained in the wild. Poaching, forest fires and farmland took away their homes. Their beautiful spotted fur made them easy targets for hunters.
Today, things are looking brighter. A new report by the Wildlife Conservation Society says around 130 now live in Russia, most of them protected inside the Land of the Leopard National Park, which was set up in 2012. This area covers over 70% of the leopard’s best breeding spots.
The park didn’t do it alone. Conservation groups, researchers and even the Russian government worked together. Since 1979, efforts have helped stop the decline. Strong laws, fire control and restoring deer populations also made a difference. These deer are key prey for the leopard.
Conservation and Careful Monitoring
Over 200 camera traps track the cats across the region. Researchers say the population has nearly tripled since 2014. They now cross freely between Russia and China. Some leopards live only in China, but many travel between the two.
Experts are proud but cautious. Inbreeding signs have begun to show. Twisted tails and white paws might signal a lack of variety in their genes. To fix this, Russia may bring in zoo leopards to mix with the wild group.
Scientists believe the leopard is no longer at immediate risk. But they agree—constant work and cross-border support are still needed. If that continues, the Amur leopard may have a real chance to thrive again.
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