The Amur leopard gets its name from the 2,700-mile-long Amur River. It's also known as the Russian or Far Eastern leopard. Silent, sleek, and strong, Amur leopards are deadly hunters of deep forests. They roam large areas in search of prey. Their long, thick coat and long legs help them survive the cold and deep snow of eastern Asia.


They prefer to be alone rather than in the company of other Amur leopards, and keep and defend territories of up to 60 square miles - about the size of Minneapolis.
These stealthy, speedy hunters excel at climbing and jumping. Amur leopards can run 37 mph and leap 20 feet. Pound for pound, leopards are the strongest of all cats. They can lift a 150-pound deer in its jaws to a branch 15 feet in the air.


Their conservation status is listed as critical. With deer populations declining and habitat being disrupted, these magnificent animals teeter on the brink of extinction. Fewer than 50 individuals live in the wild. Recent public campaigns have saved their last refuge, and some old habitats may be restored.