Hold onto your hats, wildlife lovers! 🐾 Wild North China leopards have been spotted in the Taihang Mountains, bringing excitement to animal enthusiasts and conservationists alike.
Between May and November 2023, Chinese photographer Xiao Shibai and the China Felid Conservation Alliance (CFCA) captured stunning photos of these elusive big cats roaming their natural habitat.
CFCA, a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting wild cats in China, hopes these images will raise awareness and inspire more people to protect these majestic creatures. \"We hope that these photos and their stories can be spread more widely, so that more people can know about these animals in China and thus protect them,\" said the CFCA.
Since its founding in 2013, CFCA has identified over 90 adult North China leopards in this key habitat area. These spotted felines can grow up to two meters long and weigh around 70 kilograms. Their presence signals a healthy ecosystem where they can find enough prey.
Though once widespread, the North China leopard's population has dwindled due to habitat loss. Listed on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species since 2012, they now mainly inhabit mountainous forests in northern and northwestern China.
Fun fact: Back in 1862, a leopard pelt arrived at the British Museum, and British zoologist John Edward Gray named the subspecies Panthera pardus japonensis, thinking it came from Japan. But surprise! Leopards had never been spotted there—the skin actually came from the mountains northwest of Beijing.
Since 2017, CFCA has been collaborating with local governments, NGOs, universities, and the private sector to protect and restore the leopards' habitats. Their efforts are crucial to ensuring these beautiful creatures continue to thrive.
With the leopards making a comeback, there's renewed hope for the species. Let's spread the word and help protect these incredible animals! 🐆✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
