- A skier was injured in Fuyun County, Xinjiang, after a snow leopard attacked when she approached within about 10 feet to photograph it.
- A ski instructor chased the animal away by waving poles while bystanders helped the injured woman, who was hospitalized in stable condition.
- Local authorities issued warnings after multiple snow leopard sightings, advising visitors to move quickly, avoid lingering, and not approach wildlife for photos.
- Snow leopard attacks are rare, and conservation groups estimate only 4,000 to 6,500 remain worldwide, many living in China.
FUYUN COUNTY, XINJIANG, CHINA — A female skier was injured after a snow leopard attacked her when she moved close to the animal to take a photo, according to details described in local reporting. Video from the scene shows the skier lying in the snow moments after the incident.
Incident Reported Near Border Region
The attack happened Friday evening in Fuyun County, a remote area in northern Xinjiang near China’s border with Mongolia. The skier had spotted the snow leopard and approached to within about 10 feet while attempting to take a picture.
Instructor Drove Animal Away
A ski instructor intervened and chased the snow leopard away by waving ski poles, according to the account. The skier was then helped away from the area by others on the slope.
Victim Hospitalized in Stable Condition
The skier was taken to a local hospital and was reported to be in stable condition. Her helmet was credited with helping prevent more serious injuries.
Officials Issue Safety Warning After Sightings
The incident comes as local authorities issued warnings after multiple recent snow leopard sightings in the area. Visitors were advised to move quickly through the region, avoid lingering, and not approach wildlife for photos.
The skier had reportedly been staying near the Keketuohai UNESCO Global Geopark in Xinjiang. A guesthouse owner in the area reported a snow leopard had been seen near a nearby property the night before while searching for food, though it was not confirmed whether it was the same animal involved in the attack.
Rare Encounters, Ongoing Conservation Concerns
Snow leopard attacks on people are considered uncommon. Conservation groups estimate only about 4,000 to 6,500 snow leopards remain worldwide, with a significant portion living in China.
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