China
22:49, 16-Jun-2017
Images prove the existence of snow leopards in Altay mountain range
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Scientists have captured footage of endangered snow leopards in China's Altay mountain range, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. This momentous discovery eases fears that the majestic animals no longer lived in this area.
The discovery was made at the Ku’ermutu Station, a northernmost station in the Altay region of Xinjiang. Two local conservationists of the Liangheyuan Conservation Area took videos and photographs of the snow leopards’ footage as evidence to prove the existence of this elusive creature.
Photo taken by local conservationists of Liangheyuan Conservation Area
Photo taken by local conservationists of Liangheyuan Conservation Area
Ayiding Mamuer, one of the conservationists, told the correspondent that the two distinct characteristics, namely black spots on the body, and the thick and long tail made it impossible to be anything else.
“It’s a mature snow leopard, possibly three to four years old,” Mamuer said.
China’s top snow leopard expert Ma Ming said it’s a historic finding. He said that the Altay mountain range encompasses four key players in the Belt and Road initiative. “This discovery will be positive for the animal’s protection, as well as the cooperation between these countries,” Ma said.
Snow leopards are an endangered species of large cat, known to roam the Altay Mountains where China, Russia, Kazakhstan and Mongolia meet.