Zhao Honggang inspects an Asian barred owlet with broken wings. [Photo/hz66.com]

Four injured animals were released into their natural habitats on the morning of Aug 15, coinciding with the inaugural National Ecology Day.

These animals had undergone thorough treatment and rehabilitation at a wildlife rescue center located in the Giraffe Manor in Miaoxi town, Huzhou's Wuxing district.

Since its establishment in 2021, this sanctuary has treated 223 wild animals, 150 of which have been successfully reintroduced into their natural environments.

Zhao Honggang, an experienced wildlife professional from Yunnan province, previously worked at a wildlife park before relocating to Huzhou in 2021. As a dedicated member of the Giraffe Manor team, Zhao's primary responsibilities encompass the compassionate care of animals and the provision of vital veterinary medicine. Recent years have witnessed a remarkable surge in community involvement, with citizens actively reporting wildlife in need and seeking assistance.

Zhao remarked, "Through our rescue efforts, it is evident that public awareness and commitment to wildlife conservation have made notable strides. The number of distress calls we receive, as well as the annual intake of wild animals, continues to rise."

Notably, the wildlife brought to the center by concerned citizens after reporting to the authorities often includes national-level protected species. Among these creatures are critically endangered black-faced spoonbills, as well as taxa falling under the second level of national protection, including raccoon dogs and kestrels.