Nightlife of Tibetan antelopes: drones reveal the hidden struggle for survival in Hoh Xil
Nature still holds countless secrets beyond human sight. New observation technologies are allowing scientists to explore remote ecosystems and witness the complex relationships between species, where survival depends on constant adaptation.
A drone equipped with thermal imaging technology has captured the first direct observations of the nighttime activity of Tibetan antelopes during the calving season in Hoh Xil, northwest China's Qinghai Province. The footage provides scientists with a rare look at how the animals rest at night and respond to threats from predators.
The footage, recorded on July 12 near Zhuonai Lake, revealed the behavior of Tibetan antelopes under the cover of darkness. Operated by a journalist from China Central Television, the drone observed the animals without disturbing them and captured a herd resting on gentle slopes. The animals were seen periodically raising their heads and carefully scanning their surroundings. However, the peaceful scene soon changed as several wolves began moving silently toward the herd. A hunt quickly followed. One wolf suddenly accelerated, rushed into the herd and attacked a lone Tibetan antelope, forcing it to the ground. The rest of the herd immediately scattered to escape.
"For more than 20 years of studying Tibetan antelopes, this is the first time I have seen nighttime footage from Zhuonai Lake. The infrared thermal imaging captured something truly remarkable. We can directly observe the behavior of these antelopes at night in this dangerous calving area and their interactions with predators. These images are extremely valuable for both the public and scientific research," said Lian Xinming, a researcher at the Northwest Institute of Plateau Biology under the Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Earlier that morning, the drone recorded another deadly encounter. A large adult Tibetan brown bear was seen quietly approaching a group of antelopes. The herd sensed danger and scattered in different directions, but one antelope was unable to escape quickly enough. The bear captured its prey and carried it away across the plateau.
"These images reveal the vulnerability of Tibetan antelope herds and the strength of predators. But this is simply the law of survival in nature. The interaction between predators and prey maintains ecosystem health by preserving stronger individuals within populations and ensuring the stability and resilience of the plateau environment," Lian said. Hoh Xil, located on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, is one of China's largest nature reserves and a crucial habitat for Tibetan antelopes. The use of drones and thermal imaging technologies is opening new opportunities for wildlife research and conservation.
As reported by CCTV+, these observations will help scientists better understand the Hoh Xil ecosystem and preserve the balance between predators and herbivores in one of the world's most unique natural regions.
