Shandong county makes strides in biodiversity conservation

Dong'e provides habitats for various bird species with its healthy natural environment. [Photo by Li Aimin/for chinadaily.com.cn]

Dong'e county in Liaocheng, Shandong province, is dedicated to enhancing its natural environment and has made significant progress in this area. The county has evolved into a habitat and breeding ground for a variety of wildlife, particularly avian species.

To date, the county has recorded 279 vertebrate species, including 256 bird species, many of which are national first- and second-class animals, such as the great bustard, oriental white stork, whooper swan, and gray goose.

The strengthening of environmental governance is crucial in providing healthy habitats for migratory birds. Through continuous afforestation efforts, the county now boasts 169,500 mu (11,300 hectares) of forested land, with a greening rate of 22.78 percent and a forest coverage rate of 48 percent along the Yellow River.

Every year, Dong’e organizes various wildlife conservation awareness campaigns to continually raise public awareness about wildlife protection.

"We've just rescued a national second-class protected animal, the red falcon, and released it back into its natural habitat. By collaborating with specialized pet medical rescue organizations, we are able to offer more professional wildlife care," said Zhang Bing, head of the Dong'e County Wildlife Shelter and Rescue Station.

Since 2008, Dong'e's Biodiversity Conservation Center has been monitoring the banks of the Yellow River. Data reveals a yearly increase in both the number of species and total population of migratory birds along the Yellow River. (Edited by Li Weiwei)