Skier Attacked by Snow Leopard in China

A female skier was attacked by a snow leopard on Friday after getting too close to the animal for a photo, according to disturbing footage from the incident.

The incident occurred around 7 PM in Fuyun County, located near the northern border of China with Mongolia. Reports indicate the woman suffered severe facial injuries. Footage shows her lying in the snow while the leopard lingered close by, and witnesses guided her away as blood streamed from her face.

Local news mentioned that the skier survived partly because her helmet offered some protection from the attack.

Authorities had previously issued warnings following several sightings of the snow leopard near a hotel in the region. It seems the leopard remained in the area due to a lack of food.

According to reports, a skier spotted the leopard on her return to the hotel. When she couldn’t get the angle she wanted for a photo, she claimed the leopard kept approaching and then pounced, striking her in the face. Eventually, a ski instructor managed to scare the predator away with his pole.

The injured skier was later hospitalized and is reported to be in stable condition.

In the days leading to the attack, local authorities reminded visitors that multiple snow leopards had been spotted in the area. While attacks by these cats on humans are rare due to their typically shy nature, officials did warn that they could be aggressive. They advised tourists to avoid lingering around or attempting to take close photos.

The warning noted, “Snow leopards are large, aggressive predators. Don’t linger and move quickly when passing through this area. Do not get out of your vehicle, approach for photos, or walk around alone.”

Witnesses staying in nearby accommodations confirmed having seen a leopard in the vicinity before the attack, although they couldn’t confirm if it was the same leopard involved in the incident.

The investigation into the attack is ongoing.