The crested ibis, a rare bird species unique to China, has been selected as the provincial bird of Shaanxi in northwest China.

The bird was selected from among 15 bird candidates in a competition organized by the provincial forestry bureau and the provincial wildlife protection association.

Shaanxi is the only habitat of the rare birds in the country. Thanks to protective efforts, the number of crested ibis has increased from seven in 1981 to over 400 at present.

The province has also exerted great efforts to inform local people on bird protection, establishing April 11 as an annual "bird-loving festival" and April 11-17 an annual "bird-loving week."

The provincial forestry department has set up bird protection zones and special organizations for protecting birds.

(Xinhua News Agency March 24, 2003)