Injured little egret. [Photo provided to etaizhou.gov.cn]
A villager in Kongchang village, Duotian subdistrict, Xinghua, has rescued an injured little egret during routine farm work, marking the second wildlife rescue by residents in Duotian this year.
The villager spotted the bird with a damaged wing and called the police for help, rather than attempting to handle it alone. The egret was then taken to the Duotian forestry department for treatment.
Local officials identified the bird as a little egret (Egretta garzetta), a nationally protected species. Once the bird's health is restored, it will be released into the wild.
Duotian subdistrict has been promoting wildlife protection through village radio broadcasts, notice boards, WeChat groups, and door-to-door outreach. As a result, villagers are increasingly taking the initiative to protect wildlife, understanding that reporting an injured animal as soon as possible is the best course of action.
The forestry department plans to further improve its rescue system and reminds the public not to capture or feed injured or trapped wild animals. Instead, people should call the police or contact the forestry department for professional assistance.