China's self-developed large transport aircraft Y-20 delivered a stunning performance at the 12th Africa Aerospace and Defence (AAD) expo in Pretoria, South Africa, on Saturday, the event's public open day.
The Y-20 aircraft of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force impressed visitors with five aerobatic maneuvers during its 12-minute performance at Waterkloof Air Force Base.
"One of the highlights of the show was the Chinese aircraft. I think it's a unique experience to to see these things live," said Phiti Mosomane, a visitor.
"This is my first time being here. Yeah, the Chinese flight was, it's very beautiful. The color, I love the color, and it's very beautiful. It's just a learning experience to see how they operate the flights and all that. But yes, it's a very nice experience," said Veronica Gama, another visitor.
The AAD expo, held from Sept 18 to 22, showcased military equipment, police equipment, civil aviation technology, as well as humanitarian rescue and disaster management tools.
Held biennially, the AAD is Africa's only aerospace and defense expo that combines both a trade exhibition and an air show.
China's self-developed Y-20 aircraft wows visitors at airshow in S Africa
A team of four young people has been working in the heart of China's Qilian Mountain National Park to protect and provide medical care for the wild animals inhabiting the area.
The Qilian Mountain National Park, located at the border of northwest China's Gansu and Qinghai provinces, is home to thousands of rare species of wildlife, including snow leopards, Pallas's cats, and bharals. It is one of ten newly-established national parks in the country.
Ma Cunxin, head of the wildlife rehabilitation and breeding station in the park, together with his team members, shoulders the responsibility of rescuing wild animals and monitoring the ecology of the park.
"As a child, I loved small animals. So, I chose to study biology at university. During several field expeditions with my tutor, I developed a great fondness for wild animals," he said.
The station has recorded the movement of many rare wild animals and provide support for biological population monitoring in the park.
"We've set up cameras to monitor various ecosystems. One camera captured five snow leopards in a single image, and another, six Pallas's cats. We've also filmed Chinese mountain cats breeding at the highest altitude ever recorded. These are significant achievements for us," said Ma.
The park spans a vast area, and Ma leads a small team, including two girls, stationed at a remote location in its center. Their work can be highly challenging.
"Many of the wild animals we find can't be saved. We feel quite helpless. It's heart-breaking," said Xu Fengyi, a ranger at the wildlife rehabilitation and breeding station.
"This isn't the career path my family wanted me to follow. There is, as they say, little future in it. But I think the meaning of life is different for everyone," said Zhu Hongyi, another ranger.
The harsh environment and tiring daily routine often present difficulties, but the young people said the joy of saving a life banishes any misgivings.
"When an injured animal is rehabilitated and returned to nature through the hard work of our staff, it makes me feel wonderful to be part of this process," said Ma Jinglin, a member of the station.
Data shows that the number of bird species recorded in the Qilian Mountains region has grown to 220, and that of mammals to 35.
Young rangers guard wildlife in Chinese national park
