The Amur leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is one of the most elusive and endangered big cats in the world. Native to the temperate forests of the Russian Far East and northeastern China, this magnificent predator is known for its thick, spotted coat, which helps it blend seamlessly into snowy landscapes.

Amur leopards are incredibly agile and powerful. They can leap over 6 meters horizontally and 3 meters vertically, making them excellent hunters. Their prey includes deer, hares, and small mammals, which they stalk with patience and precision. However, their population has been reduced to fewer than 100 individuals due to habitat loss, poaching, and human-wildlife conflict.

Conservation efforts, such as the establishment of the Land of the Leopard National Park in Russia, are critical to saving this species. The Amur leopard stands as a poignant reminder of the fragility of ecosystems and the urgent need for action to protect the planet’s biodiversity.