Siberian Tiger and Leopard Populations Surge in China

Beijing (ANTARA) - Wild Siberian tiger and leopard populations in China have recorded a remarkable recovery over the past decade, according to official data from China’s National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Wednesday (29 July), which marked the 16th International Tiger Day.

Monitoring data for the Northeast China Tiger and Leopard National Park revealed that the number of wild Siberian tigers has risen to 72, up from 27 in 2017. Meanwhile, the wild leopard population has leapt to 115 from 42 over the same period, marking a historic achievement in the protection of the country’s flagship species.

The national park stated that it has recorded more than 30,000 instances of Siberian tiger activity and more than 40,000 instances of leopard activity.

China has also established a routine cooperation mechanism with Russia in building cross-border protected areas covering nearly 17,000 square kilometres, where 21 Siberian tigers and 27 leopards now regularly migrate across the border.

During the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026–2030), China will enhance research and conservation capabilities for flagship species such as the giant panda, Siberian tiger, and leopard.

It will also carry out rescue and protection efforts, as well as monitoring and early warning systems for 165 highly endangered species of wild fauna and flora, with the aim of further advancing high-quality development in biodiversity conservation.