China’s concerted efforts to protect wildlife

Established in 2021, Sanjiangyuan National Park spans a vast expanse of 190,700 square kilometers, making it the largest national park in China. Located in Qinghai province, in the northwest of the country, this park is a natural jewel that houses the sources of three of the country’s most important rivers: the Yangtze, the Yellow and the Lancang. Its name, “Sanjiangyuan,” literally means “the source of the three rivers,” and its importance to China’s water security is irreplaceable, earning it the nickname “China’s water tower.”

The most notable thing about Sanjiangyuan is its impressive average altitude of around 4,500 meters above sea level. This extreme elevation creates a unique, pristine habitat that is home to an exceptional diversity of wildlife. The wetlands and forests in the park provide vital refuge for a wide range of species, from iconic mammals such as the snow leopard to migratory birds such as the black-necked crane.

With approximately 310 recorded vertebrate species, Sanjiangyuan is a biological treasure of global importance. The presence of iconic and threatened species, such as the snow leopard and Tibetan antelope, highlights the importance of this park as a sanctuary for wildlife conservation.