The Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve in southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region is preparing for another birthing season of the endangered Tibetan antelope. The species has long been threatened by the international demand for their luxurious wool. Anti-poaching initiatives by local agencies are struggling to cover this enormous habitat. Fintan Monaghan takes a look at what is being done to help these endangered creatures.

Zonag Lake, a "big maternity ward" for Tibetan antelopes.

Each year in the middle of June, great herds of the endangered animals can be spotted roaming on the banks of the lake.

Snow storms have become a frequent visitor in recent times.

These antelopes have migrated huge distances to reach the place where they give birth.

Tseta, director of Hoh Xil National Nature Reserve Administration, said, "There are five herds of pregnant antelopes. None have given birth yet."

The staff aren't the only ones watching the herds.

Luckily, the antelopes are great runners.

Yet, their most dangerous predator comes on wheels.

To protect them from poaching, an invisible surveillance network has been built.

"The all-angle cameras can cover the entire reserve. The videos will be transferred to our station by fiber-optic cables. So, our staff can monitor and record the antelopes' behavior and movements, as well as any poaching activities," said Tseta.

China was once home to millions of Tibetan antelopes, but hunting and human encroachment on their habitat has caused their population to plummet in recent decades.

But now their number has doubled since the Hoh Xil reserve was set up 15 years ago.

Protectionists say they will continue to keep watching out for the animals they describe as "those beautiful plateau dancers."

(CNTV.cn June 16, 2011)