🌟 Once thought to be lost to legend, the Chinese crested tern is making an epic comeback in East China! 🐦🌊
Known as the \"bird of legend,\" this seabird is one of the world's most critically endangered tern species. Back in the day, scientists believed it had vanished after the 1940s. Imagine that—gone without a trace! 😱
But guess what? Over 60 years later, in a plot twist straight out of a movie, these elusive birds were rediscovered on offshore islands along the coasts of Fujian and Zhejiang provinces in east China. 🎥✨
Thanks to the tireless efforts of ornithologists since 2013, the number of adult Chinese crested terns has soared from fewer than 20 to nearly 150! 🎉 They've been helping these majestic birds establish families and breed on small islands throughout the provinces. Talk about a comeback story! 📈🐣
First recorded in Indonesia in 1861, the Chinese crested tern has captured the hearts of bird lovers around the world. Their revival isn't just a win for biodiversity but also a beacon of hope showing how dedicated conservation can bring species back from the brink. 🌍❤️
So, next time you're in East China, keep an eye out for these legendary birds soaring the skies. Who knows? You might just spot a piece of living history! 🧐🦅
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
