SEOUL, Feb. 8 (Korea Bizwire) – Seoul Grand Park announced that an endangered female Amur leopard will be arriving from the United Kingdom on February 8, as part of a conservation effort for the critically endangered species.
The Amur leopard, listed as a Class I endangered species under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) and by the Korean Ministry of Environment, is known to inhabit areas in the Russian Far East near the Amur River and in northern China.
This leopard is genetically identical to the Korean leopard, which historically roamed the Korean Peninsula before becoming extinct locally.
An Amur leopard’s body typically measures between 1.5 to 2 meters in length, with a tail length of approximately 67 to 110 centimeters.
They are recognized by their large, round heads, short necks, and yellow or reddish-yellow fur, which is covered in black spots across their body, limbs, and tail. Their flanks and back display unique rosettes with a central patch of tan fur, resembling coins.
The leopard being introduced, named Arina, was born in 2014. This initiative is part of a breeding and relocation recommendation from the European Endangered Species Programme (EEP) in 2022 and commemorates the 140th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Korea and the U.K.
The EEP annually analyzes the genetic lineage of Amur leopards worldwide to identify optimal breeding pairs. Following the selection of a male from Seoul Zoo and a female from the Highland Wildlife Park in the U.K., Seoul Grand Park initiated the importation process.
Currently, Seoul Grand Park is home to two male Amur leopards. The park plans to introduce Arina to the public in the second half of this year, once she has fully adjusted to her new environment.
Furthermore, there are plans for breeding attempts with the existing males to contribute to the conservation of the species.
In addition to the leopard, Seoul Grand Park also mentioned its efforts in acclimatizing seven reptiles of six species, including Indian star tortoises, which were confiscated during illegal import attempts or were abandoned and subsequently cared for by the National Institute of Ecology.
Seoul Grand Park Director Choi Hong-yeon expressed commitment to the successful conservation of the Amur leopard, brought about through participation in international breeding programs and the commemoration of the 140th anniversary of Korea-U.K. diplomatic relations. He also reaffirmed the park’s ongoing dedication to the conservation of endangered wildlife.
Image credit: Seoul city / photonews@koreabizwire.com
