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In the misty peaks of Longhu Mountain, one man’s 18-year mission is rewriting the survival story of the Chinese merganser – a bird so rare it’s called the ‘giant panda of birds’. Meet Xiao Dongyang, the ranger who’s become the feathered celebrities’ ultimate protector.
Braving the elements before sunrise, Xiao treks through dense forests and rugged terrain daily to monitor these critically endangered ducks. His secret weapon? A camera. Over two decades, he’s snapped 200,000+ photos and recorded 20,000 GB of video – creating the world’s most detailed merganser diary .
‘It’s not just about counting birds,’ explains Xiao. ‘Every feather pattern, nesting habit, and migration path we document helps scientists protect the entire ecosystem.’ His work has revealed crucial insights into the mergansers’ breeding behaviors and habitat needs .
Why it matters: With only ~3,000 Chinese mergansers left globally, Longhu Mountain’s population is vital for species survival. Xiao’s data helps combat threats like habitat loss and climate change – proving one person’s passion can spark real conservation change .
Next time you see a duck? Remember – somewhere in Jiangxi, there’s a ranger making sure their rare cousins keep gracing our skies .
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Why it matters: With only ~3,000 Chinese mergansers left globally, Longhu Mountain’s population is vital for species survival. Xiao’s data helps combat threats like habitat loss and climate change – proving one person’s passion can spark real conservation change 
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