Encouraging sign

In the survey this year, the Luohu bureau added 11 more infrared-triggered cameras in the hopes of capturing more data on wildlife.

Every two to three months, team members check the status of the cameras and extract data.

"Because of too many rains this summer, we delayed our fieldwork to collect the data from the infrared cameras until September," Wen said.

The footage of the Chinese pangolin was taken on May 21, showing a robust pangolin exploring its surroundings with agility.

May is the breeding season for Chinese pangolins, Wen said. "So we speculated that the animal may have been searching for a mate," she said. Although the footage is only 4 seconds, Huang said, it is incredibly encouraging.

"The discovery provides important clues for us to further study the population status and habitat preferences of Chinese pangolins in Luohu district," he said. "In a megacity like Shenzhen, with a population of tens of millions, especially in a scenic area heavily frequented by visitors, discovering a wild Chinese pangolin truly showcases the remarkable resilience of nature."

chenliang@chinadaily.com.cn