Hubei Province in central China has intensified its efforts to safeguard wild animals, focusing on two rare species: the milu deer and the Yangtze finless porpoise. Both species receive first-class state protection, reflecting the region's commitment to ecological preservation.
The milu deer, originally native to the wetlands of the Yangtze River's middle and lower reaches, vanished from China in the early 1900s due to war and natural disasters. The species made a remarkable comeback in 1985 when it was reintroduced from Britain. Today, the Tian'ezhou Milu Deer National Nature Reserve in Shishou City boasts a thriving population of over 3,800 milu deer, a significant increase from just 64 in the early 1990s.
Similarly, the Yangtze finless porpoise, often dubbed the \"giant panda of the water,\" serves as a key indicator of the Yangtze River's ecological health. Once reduced to a mere five individuals, their numbers have soared to 101, signaling a healthier river ecosystem.
Zhang Rong, director of a documentary highlighting the Yangtze's flourishing ecosystem, has dedicated seven years to documenting the resurgence of these species. \"We need to ensure wild animals thrive on their own without human interference,\" Zhang emphasized. \"They have their world, and we have ours. The best outcome is when our two worlds coexist in harmony.\"
Hubei's comprehensive ecological restoration initiatives have played a pivotal role in these successes. The government has implemented a five-level river and lake chief system, alongside forest management, fishing bans, shoreline regulation, and extensive greening projects. These measures have not only benefited the milu deer and Yangtze finless porpoise but also enhanced the overall health of the water and wetland ecosystems.
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Hubei ramps up rare animal protection efforts, sees populations spike
cgtn.com
