Rural Vitalization: Village makes profitable use of natural bird paradise

World
Europe

Poverty alleviation and rural vitalization in China faces many challenges and requires innovative solutions. One such village in the southwest Yunnan province has found its own way to raise its community out of poverty with help from some feathered friends. CGTN's Yang Jinghao is in Shiti village with this report.

Feeding birds in the forests near his home. This is how 32-year-old Cai Wu starts his day. He is from Shiti village in Yingjiang County, and is a member of the Lisu ethnic minority. This has been one of his most important daily routines for three years.

CAI WU VILLAGER "I come to feed the birds around 7 o'clock every morning. Usually, the large birds like eating corn, while the smaller ones prefer mealworms."

The area borders Myanmar, and is home to many of China's minorities. It is also known as a habitat to more than 600 species of birds due to the biodiversity of the climate including hornbills not found anywhere else in the country. Because of this, bird lovers are flocking here.

REGIS CAVIGNAUX FRENCH BIRDWATCHER "I think it (this place) is very good. So beautiful county, many hills, vegetation is very beautiful. This morning, we saw so many different birds, it's great for us."

YANG JINGHAO YUNNAN PROVINCE What was once an impoverished village, Shiti is now going through a remarkable change. Because of the growing number of avid birdwatchers coming to the area, the locals are looking at ways to cash in.

Through diligence and support from the local government, Cai Wu and his fellow villagers began to build bird-watching sheds in the forests in 2015. They charge each visitor 60 yuan, or less than 10 US dollars a day. They also provide transportation and carry photography equipment for visitors. This allows for more growth than compared to traditional farming. All while protecting the environment.

CAI WU VILLAGER "We used to be bird eaters, but now we are their protectors. And we don't cut trees for money any more. We no longer think of damaging the environment."

The local government sees the industry as a way to boost tourism to the area, and is stepping in to introduce a platform company to encourage efficient growth.

YAN BU HEAD OF YINGJIANG COUNTY "Next, we will try to improve infrastructure and services to this area in terms of eating, lodging and transportation, and maximizing profits for locals."

Calling himself a "bird guide", Cai is the father of three. On the weekends, he teaches his kids to recognize the different birds of the woods. He said he hopes his children can become knowledgeable about birds. He believes the way to protect the creatures and their habitats should be passed down from generation to generation. YANG JINGHAO, CGTN, Yingjiang, Yunnan Province.