Wildlife vets have been recruited by the Russians to help save one of the most endangered big cats.

John Lewis, from Keighley-based Wildlife Vets International, is bound for Moscow where he will oversee the re-introduction of the Amur leopard into its native habitat.

Russia is facing a crisis in its bid to clamp down on poachers who hunt the long-furred big cat for its pelt, which is used in traditional medicine.

Zoologists in the Russian capital have been breeding the animal in captivity. It is estimated there are as few as 30 of the species in the wild.

Mr Lewis's job is to screen each Amur for disease before they are released back into their natural habitat.

Mr Lewis, a specialist in big cat medicine, will be making his second trip to Russia in two years.

"The success of this project relies on many factors of which disease screening plays a vital role," said Penny Cusdin, WVI development manager. "These remaining few cats now rely on a dedicated conservation programme to save them from extinction."

Anyone wishing to help can do so by sending a cheque to Penny Cusdin at WVI, Keighley Business Centre, South Street, Keighley BD21 1AG.

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