http://bit.ly/1OtQ8aw – Episode 1
http://bit.ly/1OtQ8HM – Episode 2
http://bit.ly/1U8X3HW – Episode 3
http://bit.ly/20bauuA – Episode 5
The rangers seldom have time to relax, and now there are reports of a new group of potential poachers in Leopard Land. They may just be tourists who’ve lost their way, but their presence may also be much more sinister. Meanwhile, the search for some missing leopards continues as a team of women goes deep into the woods to collect hidden camera footage. These, together with other intelligence gathered along the way, could help the keepers determine the current whereabouts of their elusive feline wards.
The Far Eastern Leopard is also known as the Amur, Korean or Manchurian leopard or, to give it its formal name, Panthera pardus orientalis. It is found in Russia’s Far Eastern Primorye region and in bordering China’s Jilin Province. It has long legs and a thick coat making the Amur leopard the only member of its family that has adapted to a cold and snowy northern climate.
In the 20th century, the Amur Leopard’s habitat and population have both shrunk dramatically, so much so that since 1996, the sub species has been classified as Critically Endangered, with only around 50 remaining. However, some endangered animals have managed to recover from similarly dire situations, so conservationists are hopeful that these magnificent big cats might still be saved.
In Primorye, all of the leopards’ forest habitat is now an official natural reserve where the big cat population is closely monitored and their safety guarded around the clock. The Leopard Land administration takes care of the animals and their habitat while raising awareness of just how critical their plight really is. The rangers work closely with anyone willing to “adopt” a leopard – that means providing financial patronage to help protect it.
Despite being legally protected, Far Eastern Leopards are still threatened by humans. Because their fur is highly valued on the black market, many poachers frequent the forest and they’re willing to line their own pockets, at the expense of an entire species. No hunting is allowed in Leopard Land and a special team of rangers constantly monitors the area. When they do find poachers, the hunters become the hunted. It can be a dangerous job; people who enter the reserve with criminal intent are often armed and unwilling to surrender. However, the rangers are passionate about what they do and are ready to face the risk to save wildlife for future generations.
Meet the brave and dedicated Leopard Land team – an endangered Leopard’s last hope for survival.
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