Sun said Zhaotong is an optimal location for the crane, and each year, 500 to 900 birds gather there, accounting for one seventh of the species' total population.
Sun established the association in 1998 and has petitioned the government to support his group in protecting the birds. His actions, however, attracted consternation from local residents who often have barely enough to eat.
At the forum, Sun recounted how the birds have been hunted for food.
"I hope someday people can realize the value of protecting the crane," Sun said.
In Hong Kong, professors and professionals have spearheaded the conservation movement.
The Conservancy Association (
Association members have sought to impose a balance between conservation and economic development. They have done so by clearly specifying areas with abundant and valuable ecological resources.
"Some areas still suffer damage caused by development even though they are listed as protected," said a member.
Last July, association members petitioned environmental officials to reconsider building a railroad. Conservationists argued in the petition letter that a perfunctory environmental impact assessment of the project did not reflect the fact that a fresh water wetland would disappear as a result of the development. The project is still under review.
Simon Liao of the Wild Bird Federation Taiwan believes that protecting endangered birds should not be hampered by borders and said saving China's black-necked crane would be one of his group's priorities over the next year. He also donated funds to Sun's Black-necked Crane Association.
For Sun, attending the forum and receiving support from his counterpart in Taiwan may mark his first step toward international cooperation.
RSS