'Monkey King' cares for his primate pals

In order to store food for the monkeys, Shi first built a thatched cottage on the mountain top. After it collapsed under heavy snow, he built a cabin and paved a stone path from his village to the mountaintop.

Under his care, the number of local macaques has grown from 28 a decade ago to almost 200 today.

Shi's efforts in helping the monkeys has also raised animal protection awareness among the local villagers. Even though the monkeys often rummaged through the village for food, the villagers have tried their best not to disturb them.

"The locals are now living in harmony with the wild species," Shi said.

Xinhua