Research overview: captive breeding of the Amur leopard

The critically endangered Amur leopard is supported by a coordinated captive breeding program intended to safeguard the subspecies and potentially supply animals for reinforcement. This overview surveys the management of captive Amur leopards, including studbook-based breeding to retain the limited genetic diversity descended from few founders and to counter inbreeding. It reviews the challenges of managing a small population, the role of international cooperation, and the integration of reproductive science. The review connects captive breeding to wild recovery efforts in the species' fragmented range. Understanding Amur leopard captive breeding illustrates how intensive, genetically informed management is applied to one of the world's rarest cats to preserve options for its long-term survival.