In a beautiful display of international cooperation, Japan has returned 16 crested ibises to China, marking a significant milestone in the joint effort to save this endangered species from extinction. 🌏✨
These magnificent birds, nine females and seven males, were born between 2016 and 2022 at a conservation center on Sado Island in Niigata prefecture. Their journey back to China on Thursday honors an agreement aimed at bolstering conservation efforts and reducing the extinction risk for these rare creatures. 🌿
It's the first time in eight years that such a transfer has taken place, and the birds are set to make their new home at Beijing Zoo. 🏞️ The crested ibis, known for its striking white plumage and elegant posture, was once extinct in Japan, with the last native bird passing away in 2003. 😢
But hope wasn't lost! Since 1999, Japan has been collaborating with China, using birds donated from the Chinese mainland to kickstart an artificial breeding program. The agreement includes returning half of the chicks born back to China—a true partnership for the planet. 🤝🌱
Since 2008, Japan has also been releasing crested ibises into the wild on Sado Island, breathing life back into its natural habitats. As of late 2023, an estimated 532 crested ibises are soaring free in the skies of Japan, with around 160 more cared for in conservation facilities, according to Japan's Environment Ministry. 🐥🌸
This inspiring story shows how countries can come together to protect our planet's incredible wildlife. Let's hope this sets the stage for even more collaborative efforts to preserve endangered species worldwide! 💪🌍
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
