WWF Camera Catches Photo of Wild Amur Leopard
WWF charity officials were delighted when a camera trap in northeast China caught a shot of a wild Amur leopard last month. This photo is further evidence that their species population can be stabilised in the future. The fantastic images were snapped at one of the latest conservation sites by WWF-China, used to document the movements not just of Amur leopards, but also tigers and their prey.
The leopard was found a long way from it’s usual habitat near the China-Russia border, far further than the usual range covered by an Amur leopard. Due to the rarity of the animal, there is only up to 12 left in China, with another 20-25 in southern Russia. With more Amur leopard tracks, dung and hairs being found over the past few years thanks to daily monitoring and winter surveys, hopefully the signs are good that this beautiful creatures numbers are on the up.
Conservation Director of Biodiversity and Operations for WWF-China, Dr Zhu Chunquan, said –
The total population of the wild Amur leopard is even more endangered than its more eminent cousin, the Amur tiger. The recovery of the population in northeast China is very critical for the sustainable survival of the entire Amur leopard population in the world.
Thanks to the continued anti-poaching, patrolling and monitoring by WWF-China and the Jilin Forestry Department, here’s hoping there will be more fantastic photos of further Amur tigers and leopards as their habitat areas continue to grow.
Adopt a Leopard with WWF UK
The WWF is a non profit organisation who can only sustain their tireless work in saving the planet and its inhabitants through donations. You can help raise funds through the WWF Adopt a Leopard scheme.
From as little as £3 a month you receive a certificate, a print of your animal, a greetings card, and a soft toy that would make a fantastic charity gift for a loved one.
