In the lush hills of the Tongjing Scenic Area in Chongqing, a unique morning ritual has played out for nearly two decades. As dawn breaks, 59-year-old Yang Yongliu – affectionately dubbed the "Monkey Commander" by locals and netizens – begins his day, calling out to hundreds of macaques who have come to know his voice.
Yang took on the role of caretaker for the troop of protected animals back in 2008. At the time, he was responsible for a modest group of 70 to 80 primates. Through daily dedication and careful stewardship, the troop has flourished, its numbers now swelling to over 300. This remarkable growth is widely seen as a living testament to the continuous improvement of the region's ecological environment.
"My day starts at 7 a.m. and ends around 4:30 p.m.," Yang describes, outlining a routine that has remained unchanged for years. "It involves calling the macaques down for feeding, cleaning their reserve area, and constantly reminding visitors to observe them respectfully." His most crucial job, he says, is ensuring the safety and well-being of both the monkeys and the tourists, a duty he has upheld every single day of the year.
As 2026 unfolds, Yang Yongliu faces a significant life transition: retirement is on the horizon. The approaching end of his tenure has made him cherish each sunrise spent among the macaques even more. His story resonates far beyond the scenic area, highlighting the profound impact of individual commitment to conservation and the symbiotic relationship between thriving ecosystems and sustainable tourism.
The tale of the "Monkey Commander" is more than a local human-interest story; it is a microcosm of broader environmental progress and a poignant reminder of the quiet, everyday heroes who safeguard Asia's natural heritage for future generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
