Harmony Keepers: Guardians of Tibetan antelopes

Hoh Xil, a vast uninhabited expanse nestled on the Qinghai-Xizang Plateau in northwest China, has become a sanctuary for many endangered species, including the Tibetan antelope. A dedicated team of rangers serves as the unsung heroes, safeguarding the balance of this pristine ecosystem.

Around May, the vast grasslands of Hoh Xil come alive with the annual migration of Tibetan antelopes, which must navigate treacherous crossings including busy highways. De Ga, a ranger at the Wudaoliang Protection Station, has spent the past decade patrolling these rugged lands to ensure a safe passage for the animals.

But the challenges extend beyond traffic control. Heavy rainfall raises river levels, posing a vital test of survival to antelope calves. Rangers, often wading chest-deep through icy waters, monitor the crossings, ready to intervene if needed. They endure extreme conditions, from high-altitude fatigue to monotonous diets of instant noodles.

"At 4,800 meters, it feels like carrying 60 kilograms on your back," De Ga shared. Despite these hardships, the rangers remain steadfast, driven by a profound commitment to protect life.

Not far away at the Sonam Dargye Protection Station in Hoh Xil, you'll find the cutest Tibetan antelope "kindergarten." Here, guardians like Jiangwenduojie nurture orphaned and injured calves with meticulous care. Feeding, rehabilitation and eventual release are all part of the effort to ensure these animals can one day return to the wild.

Tibetan antelopes have long faced the threat of poaching for their prized underfur. In recent years, conservation efforts have helped their population rebound. Hoh Xil now supports a thriving cluster of over 70,000 Tibetan antelopes. By protecting this ecosystem and its wildlife, these rangers honor the interconnectedness of life and the enduring spirit of coexistence between humans and nature.