The Amur leopard (Panthera pardus orientalis) is recognized as one of the rarest big cats globally, facing a severe threat to its existence. This subspecies is currently listed as Critically Endangered by the IUCN, with its population having dwindled to an alarmingly low number. This article explores the unique and extremely limited natural habitat where these elusive predators still roam.
Current Geographic Range
The primary habitat of the Amur leopard is concentrated in the Russian Far East, specifically within the Primorye region, west of Vladivostok. This area represents the northernmost extent of any leopard subspecies’ range, where the cats have adapted to temperate broadleaf and mixed forests characterized by mountainous terrain. Winters bring extreme cold and deep snow, while summers can be hot, creating a challenging environment.
Beyond Russia, small, fragmented populations of Amur leopards are also found in bordering areas of Northeast China, particularly in Heilongjiang and Jilin Provinces. There are also unconfirmed reports of a few individuals in North Korea, though reliable information is lacking. The total wild population was estimated to be around 128-130 adult and subadult individuals as of 2023, inhabiting a transboundary area of about 8,398 km² (3,242 sq mi) along the Russian-Chinese border.
Protecting Their Remaining Home
The restricted range of Amur leopards is a direct consequence of threats, including poaching, habitat loss, and fragmentation. Poaching for their distinctive fur and illegal trade in body parts poses a danger to the small population. Habitat destruction, driven by logging and land conversion for agriculture, diminishes their limited areas. Climate change also presents an ongoing challenge, impacting their prey base and overall ecosystem.
In response to these threats, conservation efforts are underway to safeguard the Amur leopard and its remaining habitat. Russia’s Land of the Leopard National Park was established in 2012, covering nearly 650,000 acres. This protected area encompasses all known breeding grounds and approximately 60-72% of the Amur leopard’s remaining suitable habitat in Russia. Anti-poaching patrols, monitoring populations using camera traps, and efforts to increase prey species like roe deer and sika deer are underway within the park and adjacent areas in China. These efforts are important for the Amur leopard’s survival and population recovery.