A female tourist was seriously injured by a snow leopard on January 23, 2026, in Koktotay, a town located in China’s Xinjiang province. The incident occurred after she approached the animal in an attempt to capture photographs, according to state media and officials. Reports indicate that the tourist had exited her vehicle while skiing when she spotted the snow leopard, prompting her to get dangerously close.
Video footage shared by Fox News shows the skier receiving assistance from several individuals while clutching her face, with visible blood evident despite the blurred image. The attack transpired when the skier reportedly approached within 10 feet of the snow leopard. Fortunately, her ski helmet mitigated more severe injuries, and she was subsequently hospitalized, with her condition described as stable.
Official Warnings Issued Following Increasing Sightings
The attack has raised concerns among local authorities, especially as it follows a series of warnings regarding multiple snow leopard sightings in the region. The Forestry and Grassland Bureau had previously issued cautions about increased snow leopard activity in nearby Gem Valley, Keketuohai. An official statement emphasized the need for caution: “Snow leopards are large predators with strong aggressive tendencies. When passing through this area, please move quickly and do not linger. Do not get out of your vehicle or approach to take photos, and never walk alone in the surrounding area.”
A ski instructor reportedly intervened during the attack by waving his poles to scare off the leopard, which allowed for the tourist’s rescue. The incident has sparked discussions about wildlife safety, particularly concerning interactions between humans and endangered species.
Conservation Status of Snow Leopards
Snow leopards are classified as endangered, with estimates suggesting there are between 3,920 and 6,390 individuals remaining in the wild, according to the Snow Leopard Trust. These solitary animals are primarily active at dawn and dusk, preferring the mountainous regions of Central Asia as their habitat. The conservation of snow leopards is critical, as their populations face threats from habitat loss and human-wildlife conflict.
Authorities are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the attack, aiming to enhance public awareness of wildlife interactions and safety protocols in areas inhabited by these magnificent yet dangerous predators.
