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A tourist in China was reportedly attacked by a snow leopard
The incident took place the Talat village area of Koktokay Township
According to authorities, the tourist sustained facial injuries and was transported to a local hospital
A snow leopard has reportedly attacked a ski tourist in China.
On Friday, Jan. 23, a ski tourist was returning to her hotel in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region when the animal pounced on her, according to Global Times, United Daily News and Telegraph India.
The attack took place in the Talat village area of Koktokay Township at around 7 p.m. local time, Global Times reported.
According to footage obtained by United Daily News, the snow leopard appeared to pounce and bite the victim. People were then seen escorting her across the snow as she covered her face.
Hu Huhu/Xinhua via Getty
The scenery of the Altay Mountains at Koktokay scenic area in Fuyun County, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
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PEOPLE has contacted UNESCO and the Ministry of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China (MPS) for comment.
Police officials confirmed to United Daily News that the tourist sustained facial injuries and was transported to hospital.
She is now reported to be in stable condition, according to Global Times.
Sadat/Xinhua via Getty
Scenery of Koktokay scenic area in Fuyun County, northwest China’s Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region
Staff in the area believe the snow leopard had been struggling to find food due to the recent cold weather and therefore went to look for food in the residential areas, United Daily News reported.
According to the outlet, a witness claimed a group of people saw the snow leopard crouching from a distance. However, after calling the animal protection department, the animal suddenly lunged at a tourist.
A second person added that the snow leopard released the woman after multiple people gathered around the animal, per United Daily News.
Following the attack, safety patrols from the public security bureau and other agencies have increased in the areas, Global Times reported, citing a statement from local authorities.
Officials have asked tourists to follow safety instructions and keep a distance from wild animals. They also advise people to quickly report any sightings to authorities.
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