In early April, a dedicated biodiversity survey team from the Luohu bureau of the Ecology and Environment Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality embarked on an expedition into the lush woodlands of Wutong Mountain, the tallest peak in Shenzhen, Guangdong province. They strategically positioned four infrared cameras in remote areas of the forest to capture footage triggered by the heat of passing animals.
By September, the team had retrieved the data from these cameras, and while analyzing the footage, they were thrilled to discover images of a wild Chinese pangolin (Manis pentadactyla). This significant finding represents the first documented sighting of this endangered species in Shenzhen’s Luohu district in over 30 years.
Huang Qin, the technical advisor for the survey team, expressed his delight, stating, “It was a pleasant surprise for us. It’s evidence of the effectiveness of our environmental conservation efforts in the area.”
This remarkable discovery not only highlights the ongoing importance of wildlife conservation efforts but also serves as an encouraging indicator of the ecological health of Wutong Mountain. The reappearance of such a rare species reflects the positive impact of dedicated conservation initiatives, bringing hope for the future of biodiversity in the region.
By continuing to monitor and protect these vital habitats, local authorities and eco-enthusiasts alike can foster a thriving ecosystem that supports the return of even more species in the years to come.