High-Altitude Heroes on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau
Imagine trekking across a 4,800-meter-high wilderness where oxygen is scarce, temperatures drop brutally, and instant noodles are a luxury. This is daily life for rangers like De Ga in Hoh Xil, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sanctuary for endangered Tibetan antelopes. 🌄
The Great Migration Challenge
Every May, over 60,000 Tibetan antelopes embark on a perilous journey across Hoh Xil's grasslands. Rangers at the Wudaoliang Protection Station work tirelessly to shield them from highways and swollen rivers. 🚧💦 \"It’s like carrying 60kg on your back every day,\" says De Ga, who’s patrolled these lands for a decade.
Survival Against the Elements
From icy river rescues of stranded calves to weeks of isolation, the rangers’ dedication defies logic. Heavy rainfall turns crossings into death traps, forcing teams to wade chest-deep in freezing water—all while battling altitude sickness and limited supplies. ❄️💪
Why It Matters
These guardians aren’t just saving antelopes; they’re preserving one of Earth’s last untouched ecosystems. Their story is a testament to human resilience and ecological responsibility. As De Ga puts it: \"Protecting life here isn’t a job—it’s a calling.\"
