A skiing tourist in northern China was seriously injured after approaching a rare snow leopard to take a selfie. The incident happened in a protected mountain area where the animal had been seen shortly before.
According to reports, the woman moved very close to the leopard while trying to get a photo. A chilling image shows her smiling, unaware the animal was just behind her. Moments later, the leopard attacked, knocking her into the snow and clawing her face.
Witnesses and video footage show the woman trapped under the animal before a ski instructor managed to scare it away. Her helmet helped prevent even more serious injuries. She was taken to hospital and is reported to be in stable condition.
Authorities had warned visitors the day before that snow leopards had been spotted in the area and urged people not to stop, linger, or approach wildlife. Snow leopards are usually shy and attacks on humans are extremely rare.
The incident has prompted renewed warnings about the dangers of approaching wild animals for photos. Officials are investigating the attack and reminding tourists that wildlife encounters, no matter how rare or tempting, can turn dangerous in seconds.