The Amur Leopard

The Amur leopard is a leopard subspecies that lives in the far east of Russia and previously in parts of Korea. Unlike other leopards that live in warm climates, they have adapted to temperate forests. They are distinguishable from other leopards because of their long, thick fur, which can vary in color from pale cream to darker golden yellow. They are also smaller than most leopard subspecies, ranging from about a meter to 135 cm in length. 

Classified as critically endangered, only 70 of these beautiful cats are predicted to exist in the wild. Another 173 were kept captive in zoos in 2011. A plan to reintroduce some of these animals back into the wild has been in the process for a number of years, but in order for such a plan to be successful, leopards must be able to survive in the wild without the help of humans—something that some cats born in captivity have trouble becoming accustomed to.

There are many threats to Amur leopards:

Poaching
This is one of the most prominent threats. Leopards are most often killed illegally by local Russian villagers who want to sell their fur. In 1999, these furs were sold for $500–$1,000 in Russia. Poachers also hunt these leopard’s prey making it hard for them to find food.

Habitat Destruction
Sometimes forest fires are started by farmers who believe fire will increase fertility, but these fires also cause major threats to animals. Without trees and forests leopards have fewer places to hide and they are unable to survive in open fields.

Inbreeding
Because of their tiny population, inbreeding is a major risk. A small gene pool like theirs can lead to reproductive and heart problems. Reintroducing some captive leopards could help the inbreeding situation, but even captive animals have little genetic diversity.

Amur leopards are facing many challenges but there are also many projects aimed at helping them. The Amur Leopard & Tiger Alliance (ALTA) is a foundation dedicated to protecting these leopards. The ALTA has significantly helped to monitor these leopards and enforce anti-poaching laws. They have raised awareness, increased the area of protected parks, and established the Alekseevka rehabilitation center to help leopards and other animals in need. They have even created an anti-poaching team to help defend the species.

Because of their efforts, proceeds from this sale will be donated to the ALTA to help them protect these gorgeous cats. Learn more and make a donation at ALTA's website.

Facts
• During the 1970s, the Amur leopard range was decreased by about 80% due to poaching and habitat loss.
• Amur leopards can leap as high as 10 feet and as far as 19 feet.
• Amur leopards are likely the most critically endangered cat on the planet.

Habitat Map
Click here to see the Amur's current habitat map.

Help Me Save the Amur Leopard!
Buy my artwork at events, contact me, or donate directly to ALTA.