The crested ibis, known as the "Jewel of the Orient" and classified as an internationally protected bird, was rediscovered in May 1981 in Yangxian County, Hanzhong City, Shaanxi Province, where the only seven wild crested ibises left in the world were found. 

Yaojiagou at Yangxian County, Hanzhong City today is the place where the 7 crested ibises were rediscovered in 1981. Photo by Xinhua

In 40 years, the crested Ibis has multiplied from 7 to more than 5,000 (as of 2021), presenting a success story of biodiversity conservation in China.                 

The habitat of the wild crested ibis was less than 5 square kilometers when discovered, but through the protection of the local government and the public, it has now extended to Henan and Zhejiang provinces, now reaching 15,000 square kilometers. What's more, 14 crested ibises have traveled to Japan and Korea, helping them rebuild their wild crested ibis populations and becoming the "messengers of friendship" from China.

The "most beautiful city in Shaanxi" has been guarding the crested ibis 

The villagers bending over to plant rice seedlings and the crested ibises foraging form a picturesque scene.

Guo Lixin, deputy secretary-general of the China Wildlife Conservation Association, said, "The protection of the crested ibis is a microcosm of establishing ecological civilization in Hanzhong." From the "most beautiful city in Shaanxi" to the "joyful and livable city", Hanzhong has been guarding the crested ibis, the "Jewel of the Orient", and the "green ecology" has become the source of Hanzhong people's happy life.

Shaanxi Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve       

The Shaanxi Hanzhong Crested Ibis National Nature Reserve is located in the area near Yaojiagou, Jinjiahe and Sanjihe, 3 kilometers north of Yangxian County, Hanzhong City, constituted of the Crested Ibis Caring and Feeding Center, Crested Ibis Exhibition Hall and the Crested Ibis Release Shed. Caoba Village near the reserve is the night stay for the wild crested ibises.

The Crested Ibis Release Shed located in Yangxian County, Hanzhong City. Photo by Xinhua

       

The new-born crested ibis

Nowadays, the ecological environment of Xixiang County, Hanzhong City is getting better and better, and more and more crested ibises are coming here to nest and roost. Whether in Muma River Wetland Park or in the surrounding towns and villages, the crested ibises fluttering for food and playing can be seen everywhere, building a beautiful scene where people and nature coexist in harmony.

The crested ibis is endowed with a docile character and is regarded as a symbol of good luck by Chinese folklore, known as the "bird of auspice". Its unique look and elegant physique have been a source of inspiration for many artistic works.