Seventeen years ago, the Emin River in Xinjiang's Tacheng Prefecture hosted just two solitary swans. Today, the waterway teems with over 180 of these majestic birds, earning its new identity as "Swan Bay" and becoming a beacon for nature enthusiasts across Asia.
From Solo Guardian to Community Movement
The transformation began with Uygur conservationist Illyar Ily, who single-handedly protected the swans starting in 2007. His grassroots initiative has since blossomed into an organized protection team, inspiring widespread participation from local residents. "These swans are our shared treasure," Ily told KhabarAsia, emphasizing his vision for intergenerational conservation efforts.
Ecological Tourism Takes Flight
The swan population's 90-fold increase has turned Tacheng into an unexpected ecotourism hotspot. Visitors from across the region now flock to witness the synchronized flights of hundreds of white wings against Xinjiang's rugged landscapes – a spectacle that also boosts local economic opportunities.
