Goitered gazelles thrive in Gansu

Elf-like goitered gazelles frequently appeared in Shandan county, Zhangye of Gansu province, in recent days. [Photo by Guo Zhengxian/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Elf-like goitered gazelles frequently appeared in Shandan county, Zhangye of Gansu province, in recent days. They sometimes stood gazing into the distance and sometimes moved in groups, chasing each other, becoming a beautiful sight after the spring snow.

The goitered gazelle is a second-level protected wild animal in China. It inhabits dry and desolate deserts and semi-desert areas at altitudes ranging from 300 to 6,000 meters. Goitered gazelles are primarily active during the day, often forming small groups of several to dozens of individuals. They feed on grass and other plants and are adept at running.

In recent years, Shandan has increased its patrol and protection efforts, resulting in the increasing population of goitered gazelles and other rare wild animals, as well as the expanding distribution range. The population of wild animals within the region has begun to rise, and the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation is becoming increasingly evident, according to local authorities.