Hunting zone in Tibet Plateau proves popular

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 ◆ Hunting zone in Tibet Plateau proves popular

The Dulan International Hunting Ground on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, known as the roof of the world, has become a popular attraction with foreign tourists in recent years.

More than 600 hunters from a dozen of countries including the United States, Germany, France, Russia and Norway had visited it by the end of last year.

The hunting ground covers some 30,000 square kilometers in central Qinghai Province in northwest China. It is home to many hoofed animals including cliff goats, Tibetan antelopes, red deer and white-lip deer. The majority of Tibetan antelopes in the area are aged between 13 and 14 years, and are approaching the average life expectancy of 15.

Wildlife protection is important in the region. Hunters are encouraged to shoot at the old and weak animals, said Yang Hongwei,deputy secretary-general of the Qinghai Provincial Wildlife Protection Association.

Income received from admission fees has been used for wildlife publicity and protection, he added.