* Ungulates: These are hoofed mammals, like sika deer, roe deer, and wild boar. These are the most important prey for Amur leopards, as they are relatively abundant and provide a good amount of energy.
* Smaller mammals: They also occasionally hunt smaller mammals like rabbits, hares, and even birds.
* Carrion: They are opportunistic hunters and will scavenge on carcasses if they find them.
Here's how they get their food:
* Stealth and Ambush: Amur leopards are excellent hunters, using their camouflage to blend in with their surroundings and stalk their prey undetected. They then launch sudden and powerful attacks, often ambushing their prey from behind.
* Solitary Hunters: Unlike some other big cats, Amur leopards are primarily solitary hunters. This means they hunt individually, relying on their own skills and instincts to bring down prey.
* Powerful Bite: Their large canine teeth are designed for ripping through flesh, helping them to efficiently kill their prey.
* Adaptable Diet: As their prey availability can vary depending on the season and location, they are adaptable hunters and can switch their focus to different prey species when necessary.
Unfortunately, their hunting success has been impacted by habitat loss and poaching, which has led to a severe decline in their population. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their habitat and reducing poaching to ensure their survival.