The Qinling Mountains, with their lofty presence, repel the northern cold and bestow upon the Hanzhong Plain a mild winter that the crested ibises can easily endure. When an early snowfall unexpectedly blankets the Hanjiang River in silvery white, most resident animals prefer to stay home, leaving the crested ibises to brave the winds atop the branches.

About Journeys in Nature: Cloudy Qinling Series

Qinling Mountain range is among the regions with the richest biodiversity in the world, specifically hailed as the northernmost treasure trove of subtropical wildlife. Sitting between northern and southern China, the majestic mountain range is regarded by some as the country's "central park" and an important symbol of Chinese culture. Keep an eye out for the giant panda, golden snub-nosed monkey, takin and other rich wildlife in the cloudy Qinling Mountains. 

For more: Cloudy Qinling Series Ep. 5: 'Noah's Ark' for crested ibis

(Cover image a video screenshot; video by CGTN Nature film crew)

(If you have specific expertise and want to contribute, or if you have a topic of interest that you'd like to share with us, please email us at nature@cgtn.com.)