Maozhai Nature Reserve

　　Situated within Yao Du Town of Qingchuan County, an area famed as where "a rooster's crow can be heard in three provinces," lies a sprawling 14,150-hectare forested expanse – the remarkable Maozhai Nature Reserve. Qingchuan is located on the northern edge of the Sichuan Basin, while Yao Du Town borders Gansu to the north and Shaanxi to the east, earning the saying “a rooster’s crow startles five counties.” Maozhai quietly showcases its wonder in this bustling trade hub.

　　Maozhai Nature Reserve lies between the Micang and Daba Mountain ranges of the Minshan Mountain System in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. The area features undulating mountain ranges and crisscrossing valleys; its towering peaks and steep terrain make one feel as if standing amidst divine landforms that have descended from heaven. The land slopes from north to south, with the highest point, Yingzui Mountain, at an elevation of 2,344.3 meters, and the lowest, Handao River, at 639 meters, resulting in a vertical elevation difference of over 1,700 meters – classifying it as mid-to-high mountain landform with deep dissection. The reserve enjoys moist soil and a mild climate, characterized by a subtropical humid monsoon climate, with annual precipitation exceeding 1,000 mm. Its unique geographic location and climatic conditions contribute to the reserve’s diverse and distinctly seasonal scenery.

　　In spring, melting snow paints the forest in vibrant greens, with exotic flowers blooming in fragrant rivalry. In summer, under vast blue skies, towering trees form a natural green canopy, offering a serene escape that lifts the spirit. Autumn brings a painterly touch, with cool breezes turning the woods into a palette of colors. In winter, layers of snow cloak the forest in shimmering silver. The magic of Maozhai lies not only in its striking mountain shapes and vivid seasonal landscapes, but more importantly, in its rich diversity of rare wildlife. Surveys indicate the area hosts 292 species of vertebrates across 85 families and 25 orders. Among them, 45 species are classified as second-class nationally protected animals, including golden snub-nosed monkeys, takins, leopards, Lady Amherst’s pheasants, Sichuan partridges, red pandas, and golden cats. The golden snub-nosed monkey population is particularly abundant – rangers and nearby villagers often spot troops of these monkeys freely climbing and playing in the forest. The area was once also frequented by giant pandas, and in May 2004, a panda was discovered in Pinghezi within the reserve. Due to the region’s favorable climate and hydrothermal conditions, the vegetation is diverse, abundant, and of ancient origin. Surveys have identified 1,002 species of higher plants across 158 families, including 12 species under national protection such as dove trees, ginkgoes, metasequoias, camphor trees, and nanmu.

　　The rivers within Maozhai Reserve belong to the Bailong River basin of the Jialing River system, including the Liujiariver, Tuanyuriver, and Handao River. These streams originate from various sources and converge into the Bailong River. With abundant water volume and crystal-clear streams, the area holds great potential for hydropower development and also serves as an excellent destination for eco-tourism. The reserve spans Yao Du Town of Qingchuan County and the Maozhai Forest Farm, covering a surrounding community area of 186.5 square kilometers with a population of 5,214, primarily engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry.

　　Due to previously limited transportation and economic challenges, residents historically relied heavily on firewood for fuel, which caused some degree of damage to forest resources. Since the implementation of the National Natural Forest Protection Project, forest management and conservation have been strengthened. Environmental awareness among local communities has gradually increased, fostering harmony between humans and nature. The abundant flora and fauna of Maozhai also provide excellent opportunities for scientific research and field studies.

　　To date, the stunning natural scenery and rare wildlife of Maozhai Nature Reserve have not only captivated visitors, but also drawn the attention of numerous scientific researchers. This magical landscape of Maozhai will undoubtedly continue to draw focus for its superior ecological environment and ever-changing seasonal beauty. With ongoing forest development and progressive upgrades to the reserve, it will serve as a vital natural green barrier in the middle and upper reaches of the Yangtze River, benefiting both people and the surrounding ecosystem.