Once thought to be extinct, the Chinese crested tern is staging an epic comeback – and it's all thanks to round-the-clock conservation heroes! 🦸♂️ These striking birds with punk-rock feathers were rediscovered in 2004 on Zhejiang Province's Jiushan Islands, sparking a 20-year rescue mission.
📈 Today, their population is soaring! Over 150 birds now nest at Jiushan – the species' #1 breeding hotspot globally. 'It's like watching phoenixes rise from the ashes,' says conservationist Lin Wei. Teams use drone patrols 🚁 and 'decoy colonies' to protect fragile eggs from predators.
🌏 Why it matters: This success story proves endangered species CAN rebound with science + community action. As climate change threatens ecosystems, the terns' revival offers hope for global biodiversity efforts. 💚
