(ECNS) -- A young snow leopard has been rescued after it was found alone in the Qinghai Lake area in northwest China's Qinghai Province, local authorities said.

Rangers from a protection station under the Tianjun branch of the Qinghai Lake Scenic Area Protection and Utilization Administration found the cub during a routine patrol.

The young leopard appeared lethargic and weak, unable to forage on its own. It is suspected to have fallen behind due to exhaustion during migration.

The cub has been transferred to the Qinghai Wildlife Rescue and Breeding Center, where it is receiving medical treatment and rehabilitation, according to the authorities.

(By Zhang Dongfang)