In a heartwarming discovery, over 20 Yangtze finless porpoises were spotted joyfully navigating the waters of the Yangtze River in Xiangyin County, Yueyang City, Hunan Province.
Photographer Yi Hui captured stunning images of these playful creatures flipping and jumping, seemingly greeting onlookers with their characteristic 'smile.' Known as the \"smiling angel,\" the Yangtze finless porpoise is a unique species endemic to the Yangtze River and enjoys top-level national protection in the Chinese mainland.
Once numbering around 2,500 in 1991, the population had dwindled to 1,012 by 2017, facing threats from unregulated fishing, vessel strikes, and declining habitat quality. However, concerted conservation efforts have begun to turn the tide.
A recent scientific expedition in 2022, led by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, revealed a promising increase in the porpoise population to 1,249—a 23.4% rise since the last survey. This positive trend highlights the effectiveness of ongoing protection measures aimed at preserving the river's delicate ecosystem.
The resurgence of the Yangtze finless porpoise serves as a beacon of hope, demonstrating that dedicated efforts can restore balance to our natural world. As the species continues to recover, it underscores the importance of sustained environmental stewardship for future generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
