Once extinct on its Chinese native soil, and with only 18 individuals remaining in the world, the milu, also known as Pere David's deer, has witnessed a remarkable revival after efforts to reintroduce the species began a few decades ago. GUO GENG/FOR CHINA DAILY

Once extinct on its Chinese native soil, and with only 18 individuals remaining in the world, the milu, also known as Pere David's deer, has witnessed a remarkable revival after efforts to reintroduce the species began a few decades ago. GUO GENG/FOR CHINA DAILY

Once extinct on its Chinese native soil, and with only 18 individuals remaining in the world, the milu, also known as Pere David's deer, has witnessed a remarkable revival after efforts to reintroduce the species began a few decades ago. GUO GENG/FOR CHINA DAILY

Once extinct on its Chinese native soil, and with only 18 individuals remaining in the world, the milu, also known as Pere David's deer, has witnessed a remarkable revival after efforts to reintroduce the species began a few decades ago. GUO GENG/FOR CHINA DAILY

Guo Geng (right), the curator of the Nanhaizi Milu Park Museum, who has worked as a protector of the milu for 20 years, says he is happy to be called a spokesman for the animal. GUO GENG/FOR CHINA DAILY

Once extinct on its Chinese native soil, and with only 18 individuals remaining in the world, the milu, also known as Pere David's deer, has witnessed a remarkable revival after efforts to reintroduce the species began a few decades ago. GUO GENG/FOR CHINA DAILY