Tourist skiing in China attacked by snow leopard after getting too close to take a photo

A tourist skiing in Xinjiang province in China was injured after she was apparently attacked by a snow leopard on her way back to the hotel on Jan. 23.

According to Global Times, the incident took place at around 7pm on Friday in the Talat vilage area of Koktokay Township.

Videos of the attack circulated online

The incident first came to public attention after videos of the attack were circulated on social media.

8world reported that one of the videos showed an animal crouching near the tourist as onlookers shouted for help and urged others to call the police and emergency services.

In another video, a tourist, who was wearing a purple jacket and black helmet was seen being assisted by several people.

She covered her face with her hands and blood was visible on her clothes.

Tourist allegedly tried to take photo of snow leopard

Local media outlet China News reported that the tourist had spotted the snow leopard in the snow and tried to take a photo of the animal, but it was too far away to get a clear shot.

She decided to move closer despite warnings from fellow tourists.

The tourist reportedly approached within about 3m of the animal before it suddenly lunged at her, biting her in the face.

She fell to the ground instantly, but her helmet protected her from more serious injuries.

A ski instructor subsequently intervened by using his ski poles to chase the snow leopard away.

The tourist was then rushed to Fuyun County People's Hospital.

Authorities respond

In a statement posted on WeChat, the Fuyun County Forestry and Grassland Bureau and the county’s culture and tourism authorities confirmed the incident and said the injured skier was in stable condition, Global Times reported.

Authorities said safety patrols and protective measures have been stepped up in the area, along with public education efforts.

Residents and tourists were also urged to keep a safe distance from wild animals and to report encounters to the police.

Top photos via China News