Once teetering on the brink of extinction, China’s crested ibis—affectionately dubbed the 'Oriental gem'—is spreading its wings again thanks to 40+ years of conservation magic! This elegant bird, now a national treasure, has transformed from a rare sight in Yangxian County to a symbol of hope across Shaanxi, Zhejiang, Henan, and even Japan and South Korea.
Did you know? In the 1980s, only 7 crested ibises were found in the wild. Today, over 7,000 thrive globally, proving that dedication to wildlife protection pays off.
’This comeback is like a real-life Pokémon evolution—only better!’ shared one wildlife researcher.
As breeding season heats up, conservationists are livestreaming nest updates (no spoilers, please! ). The ibis’ story isn’t just about feathers—it’s a global eco-success that’s got Gen Z cheering.
Pro tip for travelers: Yangxian County’s wetlands now host eco-tours where you can spot these crimson-winged stars.
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Live: Unveil the enchanting world of crested ibis breeding in China
cgtn.com