On the windswept shores of Qinghai Lake, a young male Przewalski's gazelle faces an existential crisis after snapping its horn in a territorial clash — an injury with life-altering consequences. For this endangered species, horns are tools for survival: they attract mates and deter predators. This poignant narrative, captured in CGTN Nature's latest Journeys in Nature episode, spotlights the delicate balance of life in one of Asia's most unique ecosystems.
Qinghai Lake, China's largest saltwater lake at 3,000 meters above sea level, sustains diverse wildlife despite extreme conditions. The gazelle's struggle mirrors broader challenges for species adapting to environmental pressures. Once driven to near extinction, Przewalski's gazelles have rebounded to ~3,000 individuals through conservation efforts, but remain vulnerable to habitat fragmentation.
The documentary series reveals how researchers track behavioral shifts in injured animals, offering insights into ecological resilience. As climate change alters Qinghai's alpine grasslands, such stories underscore the interconnectedness of species survival and ecosystem health.
Reference(s):
Rim of Qinghai Lake Series | Episode 2: Survival's challenge
cgtn.com
