In a breathtaking display of nature’s resilience, a herd of approximately 60 Tibetan antelopes was observed fording the Qumar River in northwest China’s Qinghai Province on Saturday. The Qumar River, one of the three headwaters of the mighty Yangtze River, became a bustling corridor as these graceful creatures embarked on their annual journey back to their original habitat.
Every year between May and July, pregnant female Tibetan antelopes undertake an arduous migration spanning hundreds of kilometers. They travel from regions such as Sanjiangyuan in Qinghai, the Altun Mountains in Xinjiang, and Qiangtang in the Tibet Autonomous Region to reach Zonag Lake in the Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve. This reserve, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nestled on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and serves as a crucial calving ground for the species.
After giving birth, the mothers begin the return journey with their newborns in July and August. This perilous trek back to their original habitats is fraught with challenges, including harsh weather conditions and natural predators. The sighting of the herd crossing the Qumar River signifies the beginning of this return migration and highlights the importance of continued conservation efforts in the region.
The Tibetan antelope, known locally as chiru, is revered for its remarkable adaptation to the high-altitude environment of the plateau. Conservation initiatives over recent decades have helped the population recover from the brink of extinction due to poaching and habitat loss. The successful migration of these antelopes is a testament to the effectiveness of these efforts and underscores the significance of preserving their natural migratory routes.
For researchers and wildlife enthusiasts, the annual migration offers invaluable insights into the behavioral patterns of the species and the health of the plateau’s ecosystem. It also serves as an inspiring reminder of nature’s enduring cycles and the intricate connections between species and their habitats.
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Herd of Tibetan antelopes ford river to return to original habitat
cgtn.com
