A rare white-eared night-heron, a Class A protected species in China, has been documented for the first time in Yinjiang Tujia and Miao Autonomous County, Guizhou Province, marking a milestone for regional biodiversity efforts.
The discovery unfolded on October 14 when local resident Tian Ruzhong noticed the bird in his courtyard after it collided with power lines. "Several of us checked on it – it was quite aggressive, so we contacted forestry authorities immediately," Tian recounted. Experts confirmed the bird’s identity and released it after ensuring its health.
This sighting underscores Guizhou’s growing role as a sanctuary for endangered species, attributed to intensified conservation policies and habitat restoration. The province, known for its lush forests and wetlands, has reported rising populations of rare fauna in recent years, drawing attention from ecologists and wildlife enthusiasts.
For global conservationists and travelers, the event highlights opportunities to study and experience China’s ecological progress. Meanwhile, diaspora communities celebrate such milestones as symbols of regional pride and environmental stewardship.
