Amur Leopard Killed by Siberian Tiger in National Park of Northeast China! A Rare Encounter & Reflection on Natural Laws

On the morning of December 23, 2023, several workers driving through the Chunhua Forest in the northeast direction of Hunchun City witnessed a poignant scene not far from the road – an Amur leopard lying motionless in the snow near the northwest edge of the forest. The disorderly scene, coupled with the lifeless body of the Northeast leopard against the snowy backdrop, stood out remarkably.


Over the following days, the news of a Siberian tiger "hunting" an Amur leopard gained widespread attention through mainstream media. This rare event shattered our conventional understanding of the "peaceful coexistence" of these two nationally protected species. Both animals are classified as national first-class protected species and are integral to the National Park named after the pairing of "tiger + leopard." Hence, the news surrounding the #NortheastTigerLeopardNationalParkRareEvent# undoubtedly drew significant public interest.

 

The Northeast leopard is already classified as a critically endangered species by the IUCN, with a global population of only around 200 individuals.

 

Research indicates a significant weight difference between Northeast tigers and leopards, making it challenging for leopards to compete under normal circumstances. This reported hunting incident is considered the first documented case in China, although similar cases have occurred in other parts of the world, such as India.

 

As reported by the media, adult male Northeast tigers typically weigh over 200 kilograms, far exceeding the 50-80 kilograms of Northeast leopards. This substantial weight and strength disparity make the Northeast leopard a potential prey for the Northeast tiger. However, through the extended process of natural evolution, Northeast leopards have acquired the skills needed to survive relatively peacefully within the tiger's territory.

 

This rare occurrence provides a unique observation opportunity for the study of tiger and leopard conservation. While it may seem "rare" to us, from an ecological perspective, it is a routine part of the food chain and an expression of the laws of nature.

 

I would say that this is a natural phenomenon, a normal functioning of the food chain. In such circumstances, what does it mean to "respect nature"? It means refraining from interference, respecting nature as it is. Faced with such events, maintaining rationality is crucial. Excessive surprise should be avoided, and, most importantly, human interference should be minimized. This incident is an integral part of the laws of nature. While protecting animals, a deeper understanding of their intricate relationships is necessary for the more scientific and reasonable preservation of ecological balance.

 

Author | Yihang Shen

Editor | YJ

Contact: v10@cbcgdf.org; +8617319454776

 


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