A skier was attacked by a snow leopard while attempting to take a selfie too close to the wild animal. Video footage captured the woman lying down as the leopard hovered over her head before being scared off by a ski instructor. The incident occurred in the Keketuohai Unesco Global Geopark in northwest China.
The skier, a female tourist, suffered severe facial injuries after the leopard lunged and bit her when she approached within 10ft of the animal. Fortunately, her helmet likely prevented more serious harm. She was promptly taken to a nearby hospital for treatment, and her condition is reported as stable.
Following the attack, authorities in Fuyun county swiftly implemented increased patrols, reinforced protective barriers, and heightened public awareness campaigns in the area. Visitors were reminded to adhere to safety guidelines, avoid wild animals, and promptly report any sightings to local officials.
China is home to the majority of the world’s snow leopard population, as reported by the Snow Leopard Trust. While attacks on humans are uncommon due to the elusive nature of these creatures, recent sightings of snow leopards in the area have been noted, possibly due to heavy snowfall pushing them down from the mountains in search of food.
In a separate incident, a zookeeper in Uzbekistan tragically lost his life after being mauled and eaten by lions he was attempting to recapture. The man, identified as F. Iriskulov, was trying to impress his girlfriend by securing three escaped lions when the animals turned on him. His remains were found in the lions’ cage, with two of the lions tranquilized and one shot dead by zoo staff.
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