Snow Leopard Incident Highlights Importance of Wildlife Safety in China’s Ski Regions

A tourist was injured after encountering a rare snow leopard in northwest China, prompting renewed calls for wildlife safety awareness in high-altitude ski and mountain regions.

According to local authorities and state media, the incident occurred on Friday in Koktokay town, Xinjiang, when a visiting skier encountered a snow leopard while returning to their hotel. The animal, known for being extremely elusive in the wild, was reportedly spotted near the roadside.

Officials from the county’s Forestry and Grassland Bureau stated that the tourist exited their vehicle and approached the snow leopard to take photographs, at which point the animal reacted and injured the individual.

Videos shared on social media later showed the injured tourist lying on snowy ground, with the snow leopard nearby, before bystanders assisted the person to safety. The tourist was subsequently transported to hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.

Authorities confirmed that the snow leopard later retreated into the surrounding mountainous area. In response, local officials have increased safety patrols and strengthened public awareness campaigns, particularly targeting tourists visiting ski resorts and alpine destinations.

In an official notice, the bureau urged visitors and the general public to strictly follow wildlife safety guidelines, maintain a safe distance from wild animals, and immediately report any encounters to authorities to ensure personal safety.

Snow leopards are a protected species in China and are considered a key indicator of healthy high-altitude ecosystems. Native to Central and South Asia, the global population is estimated at between 4,000 and 6,500 individuals, with a significant portion of their habitat located in China, according to conservation organizations including the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF).

Adapted to harsh alpine environments, snow leopards inhabit remote, rocky mountain ranges and are rarely seen by humans. Wildlife experts note that attacks on people are extremely uncommon, and most reported encounters do not result in harm.

The incident serves as a reminder that while ski destinations and mountain resorts offer unique access to spectacular natural landscapes, responsible travel and respect for wildlife remain essential components of sustainable winter tourism.

Source:
Snow Leopard attacks skier in China's Xinjiang region