Amur Leopard
Distribution
Northern China and Russia
Diet
Carnivore
Habitat
Temperate and Rocky mountain forests
Latin Name
Panthera pardus orientalis
IUCN conservation status
Considered one of the rarest felines in the world, there are only about 100 left in the wild.
Interesting informations
Fast and Stealthy Hunters
These hardcore carnivores hunt both roe deer and sika deer as well as badgers and small rodents. Relying on their speckled coat as camouflage in the shadows of the forest, they can quietly approach their prey before leaping up to catch it.
Agile Limbs and Highly Developed Muscles
The very thick pads on the underside of their paws allow them to silently approach their prey and absorb the shock when they land. Particularly well-developed chest muscles, combined with powerful claws, make these felines excellent climbers. Their long tail acts as a pendulum during sudden turns.
Great Solitary Creatures Roaming on Vast Hunting Territories
Males and females live solitary lives and only cross paths for a few days during the breeding season. The male has a territory of between 60 and 100 square km, which he patrols and marks with his urine and claws. The females take care of their offspring for about 2 years.
Their Survival Hangs by a Thread
Although hunting them has been banned since 1956, they're still targeted by poachers who are interested in their beautiful fur and bones which are used in traditional medicine. Deforestation for agricultural purposes and the timber industry also interfere with conservation efforts for this species.
Featured animals
Baïko
Date of birth
September 6, 2015
Weight
103.62 lb / 47 kg
Profile
Born right here at the Zoo de Granby, Baïko became a star by making headlines in 2015 when he was delivered by cesarean section. A first in North America for this rare species.
Fun fact
He has a curious nature and participates well in his biomedical training, but spits when the animal care technicians arrive! A habit he inherited from his mother Megan. Quite the feline!
