Gansu's Wild Success: 20 Crested Ibises Reintroduced

In a significant conservation milestone, 20 crested ibises were released into Xiaolong Mountain, Gansu province, on Sunday. This event signals a new phase in Gansu's commitment to reintroducing endangered species into the wild. The birds underwent rigorous rewilding training and health assessments before their release.

This reintroduction project, launched in 2023, aims to expand the crested ibis's historical habitat and bolster the regional conservation network. The initiative builds upon earlier efforts where breeding stock was introduced from Shaanxi province, leading to the establishment of a local breeding base.

Since 2023, the number of crested ibises at the Xiaolong Mountain site has grown from 20 to 50. These efforts contribute to the remarkable recovery of the species, whose wild population was once as low as seven in 1981. Today, the global crested ibis population surpasses 10,000 individuals.

China's conservation model, emphasizing in-situ and ex-situ protection alongside rewilding, has become a global example. The current action plan (2022-2035) aims for comprehensive rewilding and restoration of natural populations across various regions, ensuring the species' long-term survival.