Vladivostok's Leopard Day celebrates Amur leopard recovery with cross-border unity

Vladivostok celebrated Leopard Day on May 3, 2023, with a lively festival at Admiral Fokin Square. The event highlighted the Amur leopard’s recovery and cross-border conservation efforts between Russia and China. Attendees enjoyed performances, workshops, and sweet treats from local bakeries. The festival kicked off with a vocal and dance performance by artists from the Tiger and Leopard Museum in Hunchun, China. Leopard-themed animators entertained crowds, while a special leopard workout session got participants moving. Vladkhleb, a local bakery, offered festival-goers Medovik cake with ginseng and Medalka cake as part of the celebrations.

Victor Bardyukov, director of the Land of the Leopard Federal State Institution, spoke about the Amur leopard’s vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Maria Okulova, the institution’s deputy director, discussed ongoing cross-border collaboration with China to protect the species. Their efforts have paid off: in the early 2000s, the Amur leopard population had dwindled to just 30 to 35 individuals, but conservation work has since tripled their numbers to around 120. The festival also included a prize draw, where ten lucky winners received gifts. Two others secured guaranteed slots in the LeoRun 2026 trail half-marathon. Organisers aimed to raise awareness through the 'Friendship Leopards' initiative, connecting residents on both sides of the Russia-China border with the rare predators living in the transboundary reserve.

The event showcased the success of conservation programmes in boosting the Amur leopard population. Attendees left with a better understanding of the species and the ongoing work to protect it. The festival’s mix of education, entertainment, and prizes ensured broad public engagement with wildlife preservation efforts.