A female tourist was attacked by a snow leopard on January 23, 2026, in Koktotay, a town located in China’s Xinjiang province. The incident occurred after the unidentified skier approached within approximately ten feet of the animal to take photographs, according to the country’s Forestry and Grassland Bureau and reported by multiple media outlets, including CNN and the New York Post.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the skier, who had been skiing prior to the encounter, exited her vehicle and moved closer to the snow leopard. Following the attack, video footage shared by Fox News depicted the skier clutching her face while being assisted by a group of men. Although her face was blurred in the footage, blood was visible. The snow leopard can be seen in the distance, highlighting the precarious situation.
According to reports, the skier’s helmet provided some protection, preventing more severe injuries during the mauling. She was subsequently hospitalized, and her condition is now reported as stable. A ski instructor managed to scare off the snow leopard by waving his poles, averting further danger.
Warnings Issued by Authorities
The attack coincided with an uptick in snow leopard sightings in the area, prompting authorities to issue warnings about the presence of these large predators. Officials from the Forestry and Grassland Bureau advised visitors to the region to exercise caution. They emphasized the importance of avoiding close encounters, stating, “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.”
Snow leopards are classified as an endangered species, inhabiting the mountainous regions of Central Asia. According to the Snow Leopard Trust, estimates suggest that there are between 3,920 and 6,390 snow leopards remaining in the wild. These solitary animals are typically most active during dawn and dusk, further increasing the risk of human-animal encounters during those times.
Investigation Underway
Officials are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding this attack to understand better how such incidents can be prevented in the future. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise when people venture too close to wildlife in their natural habitats.
As tourism continues to increase in regions inhabited by snow leopards, ensuring the safety of both visitors and wildlife remains a critical concern for local authorities.
