In Search of the Crested Ibis and Golden Snub-Nosed Monkeys
My journey through China took me from the historical treasures of Xi’an into the forests and mountains of Shaanxi, with two particular photographic objectives: the crested ibis and the golden snub nosed monkey.
After visiting the Terracotta Army, we travelled towards the area where the crested ibis had survived in extremely small numbers. At the time of my visit, the wild population was only a little over 90 individuals, making an encounter with this highly endangered bird a particularly meaningful photographic experience. I stayed in the area for several days, patiently searching for these remarkable birds.
We then continued towards the mountains in search of the golden snub nosed monkeys. On the way, our driver decided to avoid the highway to save a small toll fee and took a shortcut. Suddenly, we were stopped by police and taken to a local police office, where we were questioned because we had apparently entered an area considered sensitive. We had certainly not intended to enter a military zone, but it was an unexpected and rather uncomfortable experience.
The following day, we took the proper, longer route towards the conservation area. This time, the journey was rewarded with golden snub nosed monkeys moving through a snow-covered forest, their golden fur contrasting beautifully with the white landscape.
Looking back, China remains a journey of contrasts: ancient history, sensitive landscapes and wildlife that has survived against considerable odds.
The crested ibis represented the fragility of survival; the golden snub nosed monkeys gave me an unforgettable encounter in the winter forests. And somewhere in between, a shortcut taken to save a small toll became another unexpected chapter in the story.
CHIN001- Temminck’s tragopan pauses amid the misty undergrowth, its vivid crimson plumage glowing against the snow covered mountains.
CHIN002-Two red-billed leiothrix (Japanese nightingales) perch side by side on a slender branch, their bright plumage and scarlet bills adding a splash of color to the quiet environment.
CHIN003-Fishermen make their way home after a long day on the river, their silhouettes drifting across the glowing water as the sun sets in warm hues behind them.
CHIN004 - A crested ibis gently lands on a riverbed strewn with algae covered stones, its elegant wings brushing the evening air as the fading light casts a soft glow over the scene.
CHIN005 -Sub adult snob nosed monkey trudges carefully through the pristine snow, its curious eyes and fluffy coat contrasting sharply with the icy white landscape.
CHIN006 - Endangered crested ibis gracefully descends, carefully making its way to the riverbank, embodying quiet elegance amid its fragile habitat.
CHIN007 - An ibis glides gracefully to land, its wings catching the warm glow of the sun’s last rays.
CHIN008- Macaques resting on a stone wall, while a tender moment unfolds as a youngster nurses, capturing the quiet intimacy of family life in the wild.
CHIN009 - Male golden pheasants display their vibrant plumage in full splendor, vying to captivate a discerning hen with a dazzling courtship performance.
CHIN010 - Snob nosed monkey while grooming.
CHIN011 - Golden snob nosed monkeys gathers at their feeding spot, their striking golden fur glowing in the dappled light.
CHIN012 - Another perfect landing of the crested ibis at sunset , light play's a key role here.
CHIN013 - Close up of the Temminck’s tragopan.
CHIN014 - Details of the plumage of the golden pheasant.
CHIN015 - A golden snob nosed monkey carefully descends, carrying a clinging youngster on his belly , showcasing the tender bond and agility of these forest dwellers.
CHIN016 - Lady Amherst's Pheasant (Chrysolophus amherstiae) stands in full splendor against a snowy winter backdrop, its vivid plumage strikingly contrasted by the pristine white surroundings.
CHIN017 - Red billed blue magpie perches alertly on a rock looking for some leftovers.
CHIN018 - This red billed leiothrix frantically hops and lunges, trying to catch a worm it just dropped, its bright plumage and agile movements full of determination.
CHIN019 - Royal (Variegated) Chinese Pheasant stands in full splendor, its brilliant, multicolored plumage shimmering with every detail.
CHIN020 - Close-up view reveals the intricate beauty of the Chinese Pheasant’s plumage each feather a delicate tapestry of iridescent hues, patterns, and textures.