A 21-year-old white-browed gibbon named Dingding has become the latest international face of China's conservation achievements. A video of the primate "chatting" with staff at the Taiyanghe National Forest Park recently garnered over 44 million views on global social media platforms, highlighting a burgeoning era of harmonious coexistence between humans and endangered species in Southwest China.

While the video touched netizens with its heartwarming interaction, experts say the scene is a microcosm of a much larger ecological shift in Yunnan province.

The tranquil life enjoyed by Dingding and his peers is underpinned by rigorous policy. During the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-25), Yunnan adopted the "forest chief" system, a centralized strategy that has established one of the country's most extensive wildlife protection networks.

According to the Yunnan Forestry and Grassland Administration, the province serves as a sanctuary for 928 key wild animal and plant species under State protection. At Taiyanghe, this protection translates into a sprawling 216.23-square-kilometer habitat with a forest coverage rate of 97.45 percent.

Taiyanghe has evolved into more than just a forest; it is a center for rescue and mutual healing. Among its residents is Yuanyuan, a white-cheeked gibbon whose presence is a testament to the vigilance of local forest police. After being rescued from life-threatening conditions in its early years, Yuanyuan now thrives alongside other rare species, such as Zhaocai and Jingbao — a pair of binturongs classified as national first-class protected wildlife.

"The animals here enjoy being close to people because they feel secure," said Xu Yanfang, a staff member who works closely with "Princess" Nana, one of the park's rhinoceroses. "Working with them is a healing experience. It's a fascinating dynamic where the caretakers and the animals support each other's well-being."

The park's success is also visible in the longevity of its inhabitants. At 21, Dingding is considered an elderly gibbon, equivalent to over 90 human years. His playful interactions — insisting on being carried or demanding peeled grapes — reflect a level of care usually reserved for domestic seniors.

Fu Ziqian, a veteran staff member, noted that the dietary preferences of the animals often mirror the region's rich natural offerings. "Dingding enjoys local specialties like fish mint and gotu kola," Fu said."It shows how well-integrated these animals are into the local Yunnan ecosystem."

The conservation effort has moved beyond government agencies and into the hearts of the public. Supporters like 42-year-old Wang Xueyun travel hundreds of kilometers from Xishuangbanna every month to bring fresh fruit to the gibbons.

"I wish for Dingding, Shanshan and Yuanyuan to remain healthy," Wang said. "I hope the other animals can live freely and happily on this land."

As Yunnan prepares to transition into future conservation frameworks, the high-definition cameras and livestreamed sessions led by young operators like 23-year-old Lou Zihan ensure that the message of protection reaches a global audience. For Lou, the mischievous antics of the binturongs she monitors are not just content for social media, but proof that China's "green revolution" is working — one nuzzle at a time.

Contact the writers at yanyj@chinadaily.com.cn