Top of the World: Mountain rangers protect wildlife in Hoh Xil

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Sunday marks World Earth Day, an annual observance intended to raise public awareness on environmental protection. In China's Hoh Xil nature reserve on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, generations of conservationists have worked to protect the fragile balance on the "roof of the world". CGTN's Tao Yuan traveled there for a look at their stories and efforts.

These Tibetan antelopes are just months old. Come spring, they will run wild on the grassland, alongside their flock. But right now, they are Legdup Tshegyal's babies to care for.

LEGDUP TSHEGYAL HOH XIL MOUNTAIN RANGER "Some of them might have lost their mothers. Or, they might be too weak that their mothers gave up on them."

Legdup Tshegyal is one of a team of mountain rangers in Hoh Xil, high on China's Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. A no-man zone, 4,500 meters above sea level, of lifeforms so rich, and water resources that nurture the entire country.

LEGDUP TSHEGYAL HOH XIL MOUNTAIN RANGER "I love everything here – the mountains and water. I've rescued many wild animals, and released many back into the wild. I don't think I can ever leave this place."

But beneath the sweeping vistas, Hoh Xil is a battleground between conservationists and fortune seekers - Poachers killed the antelopes for their prized wool. The species was once pushed to the brink of extinction. A generation of conservationists have worked to protect this fragile natural balance, some giving their lives - targeted by poachers, or succumbing to nature’s cruelty.

XIE ANCHENG HOH XIL MOUNTAIN RANGER "I used to be a soldier. I never experienced life and death in the military. It is here that I have learned about the meaning of perseverance - and this is the spirit of Hoh Xil."

Keeping this pristine land just the way it is - For now, this highway seems to be the only trace of human civilization around here. An economic necessity – though one that keeps the rangers on edge.

LEGDUP TSHEGYAL HOH XIL MOUNTAIN RANGER "Seeing them roam their homeland carefree, it gives me strength and faith."

XIE ANCHENG HOH XIL MOUNTAIN RANGER "This is truly a harmonious picture of how humans and nature can co-exist. As a human, I feel so proud of what I do."

Nature rules this land. But the rangers are making their mark. TY, CGTN, on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.