China, a land of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, is also home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, with many species found only within its borders. Let's explore four of China's most iconic and endangered creatures: the giant panda, the snub-nosed monkey, the crested ibis, and the Chinese white dolphin.
The giant panda: A national symbol
Arguably China's most famous animal, the giant panda is a beloved national symbol. These black-and-white bears are primarily found in the bamboo forests of Sichuan, Shaanxi and Gansu provinces. Despite their cuddly appearance, pandas are solitary creatures with a specialized diet consisting almost exclusively of bamboo. Thanks to extensive conservation efforts, China's wild giant panda population has increased from approximately 1,100 in the 1980s to nearly 1,900 in 2024.
The giant panda. /CFP
The golden snub-nosed monkey: A curious primate
The golden snub-nosed monkey, known for its distinctive upturned nose, is another species endemic to China. Also called Sichuan snub-nosed monkeys, these primates inhabit the mountainous regions of central and southwest China. They are highly social animals, living in large groups and communicating through complex vocalizations. Their diet is primarily herbivorous, consisting of leaves, fruits and tender shoots.
The golden snub-nosed monkey. /CFP
The crested ibis: A rediscovered bird
Dubbed the 'oriental gem,' the crested ibis, with its striking red crest and long black beak, symbolizes conservation success. Once thought to be extinct in China, this bird was rediscovered in the 1980s in a remote valley in Shaanxi Province, sparking captive breeding programs and heightened protection efforts. As a result, the global population of the crested ibis reached 11,000, according to statistics released by China's National Forestry and Grassland Administration in 2023. These elegant birds primarily inhabit wetlands and forests, where they forage for fish, amphibians and insects.
The crested ibis. /CFP
The Chinese white dolphin: A marine marvel
The Chinese white dolphin is a fascinating marine mammal found in the coastal waters of China. These dolphins are highly intelligent and social animals, often seen traveling in pods of up to 20 individuals. Primarily carnivorous, they feed on fish, squid and shrimp. Unlike most other dolphin species, which are grey, adult Chinese white dolphins have a distinctive pale pink hue, making them easy to spot. The global population of Chinese white dolphins is estimated to be around 6,000, with approximately 4,000 residing in Chinese waters.
The Chinese white dolphin. /CFP
BRICS' wildlife wonders
The BRICS nations span vast and diverse landscapes, from lush rainforests to arid deserts. Within these ecosystems lies a treasure trove of wildlife, much of which is unique to these regions. Join us on a journey to explore the extraordinary biodiversity of the BRICS countries.
(Cover image designed by CGTN's Li Wenyi)