Ma Jiancheng has spent the past 26 years protecting the Qilian Mountains in Northwest China, patrolling the rugged terrain at an altitude of 2,500 meters.

As an ecological patroller, Ma and his team spend more than 20 days each month monitoring the area for illegal logging, poaching, unauthorized fires and other threats to the environment. They also track wildlife activity as part of their efforts to preserve the fragile ecosystem.

Their work has helped bring new life to the region. Thanks to their efforts, sightings of musk deer, red deer, blue sheep, blue eared pheasants, golden eagles — and even elusive snow leopards — have become increasingly common during patrols.

The team serves not only as protectors of the Qilian ecosystem but also as witnesses to its transformation. Their dedication continues to safeguard the region's natural beauty for future generations.

Wu Yuexuan contributed to this story.