Swans grace a lake in Yangquan. [Photo/yq.gov.cn] 

Yangquan has become a wildlife sanctuary, with flocks of black storks, swans, common kingfishers, and red-billed blue magpies thriving in its improved environment. 

"A few years ago, spotting a black stork was rare. Now, they're everywhere," says Lu Zhongde, a local photography enthusiast.

This transformation is due to the city's commitment to integrated ecological management, focusing on mountains, rivers, and forests. Departments dedicated to ecology, water resources, and forestry have enhanced biodiversity protection, creating a thriving habitat for wildlife. 

A black stork in Yangquan. [Photo/yq.gov.cn]

From 2022 to 2024, the North China leopard appeared twice in Pingding and Yuxian counties, indicating a healthier ecosystem. Yangquan's 22.31 percent forest coverage and consistent air and water quality improvements provide an ideal habitat for rare animals. 

Yangquan boasts 2,430 hectares of urban green areas, a green space ratio of 40.71 percent, and 141 parks supporting biodiversity. It is home to 725 wild seed plant species and 230 terrestrial vertebrates, including several nationally and provincially protected species.

Red-billed blue magpies in Yangquan. [Photo/yq.gov.cn]