At over 4,000 meters above sea level in the high Pamirs, a team of Chinese and Tajik scientists is on a mission: protecting the iconic Marco Polo sheep 🐏.
Facing bitter winds and rugged terrain, researchers from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography (XIEG) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences and their Tajik counterparts follow the sheep's tracks along the snow line. When a herd appears, they quickly set up a spotting scope, noting size, behavior, and habitat conditions.
"Whenever we encounter suitable habitats for Marco Polo sheep, we stop and observe. Sometimes we see only a few, sometimes dozens. Each sighting is valuable for our research," says Yang Weikang from the XIEG.
Known from Marco Polo's medieval travel tales, this species has become a flagship for plateau conservation. Data collected during these expeditions help teams understand population trends, migration routes, and environmental pressures—crucial for shaping effective protection plans.
This collaborative effort not only strengthens scientific ties between the Chinese mainland and Tajikistan but also showcases how cross-border teamwork can drive real change for wildlife and ecosystems on the roof of the world. 🌍✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
