Raptors take flight again thanks to local conservation efforts in Shandong

Hu Hailei, head of a raptors rescue center called Aoxiang and located in Laiwu district, and his friends spent a decade working to establish the sanctuary, enabling over 2,000 wild animals to return to their natural habitats. 

A decade ago, Hu, who was a legal professional by trade, initiated the creation of this non-profit organization with the help of his friends. To date, they have aided in the rehabilitation of over 900 injured raptors, allowing them to soar once more in the skies. 

Hu said that the initial establishment of the raptor rescue center stemmed from he and his friends' love for animals. "We hoped that we could rescue and protect these raptors. All raptors are classified as nationally protected wildlife, signifying their crucial role in the ecosystem and environmental conservation." 

Raptors, being carnivorous animals, require fresh meat for sustenance. Every morning, Hu visits the market to purchase fresh rabbit meat, which he then feeds to the injured raptors. To expedite the recovery of lightly injured raptors and facilitate their return to the wild, Hu often holds rehabilitation sessions to help them fly again.

Hu said that seeing the birds freely soaring in the sky makes all their efforts worthwhile. 

Over 20 volunteers have joined the raptor protection team. Engaging in activities such as wilderness patrols, rescue missions and raptor conservation promotion efforts, these volunteers are helping these magnificent birds fly again. 

Hu's unwavering dedication and the collective efforts of the volunteers demonstrate a profound commitment to wildlife conservation and the preservation of these majestic creatures in Jinan. (Edited by Yang Yi)