The global population of the Amur leopard has reached 223 individuals. These figures were released in summer 2026 following the first large-scale joint study conducted by specialists from the Land of the Leopard National Park (Russia) and the Northeast Tiger and Leopard National Park (China).
Scientists carefully cross-checked data from hundreds of camera traps installed on both sides of the border. The results showed that 135 leopards live on Russian territory, 115 on Chinese territory, and 27 individuals regularly cross the border.
In the early 2000s, the Amur leopard was critically endangered, with only about 35 animals remaining in the wild. Thanks to protected areas, anti-poaching measures and systematic feeding of ungulates (the leopard's main prey), the population has grown more than sixfold.
Ecologists are optimistic: the population shows a healthy sex ratio, and many cubs and young animals were recorded. Specialists from both countries have agreed to repeat this synchronized monitoring regularly. The species nevertheless remains on the Red List and vulnerable to deforestation and wildfires.