The snow leopard: A window through which I observe the world
Words: 1,443 | Reading time: 14 minutes
Dr Juan Li of Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University’s Department of Health and Environmental Sciences has studied snow leopards for 14 years. She received her PhD in zoology from Peking University, and conducted postdoctoral research there and at the University of California, Berkeley, and Westlake University. Her research explores the relationships between urbanisation, agriculture, and biodiversity.
In this interview, Dr Juan Li shares her experience of researching the elusive snow leopard, and her hopes and fears for the future of this majestic animal.
1. Why did you decide to study snow leopards?
2. I understand there may be only about 4,000 snow leopards that exist in the wild. What is the snow leopard's role within this ecosystem?
3. What happened the first time you saw a snow leopard？
4. What is the current conservation status of the snow leopard in China?
5. What is the relationship between snow leopards and people who live on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau?
6. What threats do snow leopards currently face in this rapidly changing world?