China has a vast area of both land and sea, complex and diverse landforms and climates, and has nurtured rich and unique ecosystems, species and genetic diversity.
It is one of the Most Biodiverse Countries in the World
Thousands of unique animals and plants are carefully looked after here. Wild animals are important forest resources. Many endemic species of wild animals exist in China.
Among vertebrates, more than 470 terrestrial vertebrates such as the giant panda, crested ibis, golden monkey and Chinese crocodile are found only in China.
In order to preserve these unique and beautiful creatures in nature, as well as contribute to the conservation of global biodiversity, China has been continuously strengthening the protection of wild animals, with remarkable results. Especially in the rescue and protection of some endangered species, China has gained a successful experience that can be used for worldwide reference and promotion.
The conservation of China’s key species has achieved remarkable results in recent years, creating a Chinese picture of the harmonious coexistence between man and nature. 90% of terrestrial ecosystem types and 71% of national key protected wild animal and plant species are effectively protected.
The habitat of wild animals is being expanded, and the population continues to increase. The wild population of the giant panda has increased from 1,114 to 1,864 over the past 40 years, with the crested ibis increasing from 7 at the start of its discovery to 5,000.
The wild population of Asian elephants has increased from 180 in the 1980s to about 300 currently. The wild population of Hainan gibbons was 10 40 years ago, which has now increased to 35.
World Animal Day is celebrated every 4 October. The theme for this year’s World Animal Day is: Share the Earth.
