Tourist’s Face Bitten by Snow Leopard in Xinjiang After Attempting Photo Shoot

A tourist was bitten on the face by a snow leopard in China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region following an attempt to photograph the animal.

The incident occurred in the evening in Fuyuan County as the woman returned to her hotel after skiing. Spotting a wild leopard at a distance, she decided to approach it for a clearer image. In pursuit of a better shot, she advanced within three meters when the leopard suddenly lunged and bit her face, knocking her down.

Local authorities used ski poles to scare off the animal. The victim was rushed to a medical facility where she received immediate care. Thanks to the protective helmet she wore, serious injuries were avoided, though she remains hospitalized in stable condition with no life-threatening complications.