In the spring, the enchanting goitered gazelles frequently appear on the northern banks of Dongle in Shandan county, Zhangye city, Gansu province. [Photo provided to gogansu.com]

Recently, the elegant goitered gazelles have frequently appeared on the northern banks of Dongle in Shandan county of Zhangye, Gansu province. They're a splendid sight after the spring snow. They pause to gaze into the distance, move in groups, and playfully chase each other, adding a beautiful touch to the landscape.

The goitered gazelle, also known as the long-tailed yellow goat, is a species of animal belonging to the Antilopinae sub-family of the Bovidae family. Resembling a yellow goat in appearance, this species is classified as a second-class protected wild animal in China.

It inhabits dry and desolate deserts and semi-desert areas at elevations ranging from 300 to 6,000 meters. The goitered gazelle is primarily active during the daytime, often forming small groups ranging from a few to several dozens. They are adept runners and primarily feed on grass and other plants.

In recent years, Shandan has continuously intensified its patrols and protection efforts, resulting in a gradual increase in the population and expanding distribution range of rare and endangered wild animals such as the goitered gazelle. The local wild animal population has begun to rise, and the effectiveness of biodiversity conservation is increasingly evident, presenting an ecological tableau of harmonious coexistence between humans and nature.