Shanxi expands and enhances wildlife habitats
Updated: 2025-06-17
Shanxi province has seen a substantial increase in forest coverage and the effective protection of rivers, lakes, and wetlands through the implementation of various national and provincial ecological projects, leading to improved habitats for wildlife and a steady growth in both the number and diversity of species.
Shanxi has built an extensive and multi-layered protection network that includes nature reserves, scenic areas, forest parks, and wetland parks. A total of 272 protected areas are scattered across the province, safeguarding 80.9 percent of Shanxi's key wildlife species.
A joint meeting system involving 21 departments at the provincial, municipal, and county levels has been established, resulting in coordinated enforcement actions. These efforts have effectively combated the illegal hunting and trading of terrestrial wildlife.
Shanxi also utilizes genetic testing and satellite tracking data to analyze wildlife activity patterns, accurately identifying migration routes and barriers. This information is crucial for constructing ecological corridors.
The province is also actively engaged in wildlife rescue efforts. The Shanxi Wildlife Rescue and Breeding Center has been established, and rescue stations have been set up in 11 cities and key counties, with the support of urban zoos and conservation organizations.
The distribution of the provincial bird, the brown-eared pheasant, has expanded from 28 counties and three reserves to 45 counties and 20 reserves. Moreover, 19 bird species, including the once-rare red-crowned crane and the Chinese merganser, have found new homes in Shanxi.