Going wild

Ecotourists from Beijing venture into Hebei province's wilderness not only for sightseeing but also to learn about the importance and methodologies of environmental protection.[Photo provided to China Daily]

But the multitude of wild boars, on the contrary, poses a problem for farmers, since they chomp through cornfields.

Human changes to the environment have caused populations to explode, rather than dwindle, creating clashes in shared habitats.

Visitors who join the organization's eco-excursions howl like wolves to frighten the swine from fields. They also place wolf and leopard feces like landmines around fields to deter the boars, Li says.

"The ultimate goal is to resolve conflicts between humans and animals, and let nature restore order in its own ways."

Leopards are expected to expand their numbers in the area, which will alleviate the pressure boars exert on crops.

The big cats' proliferation would, indeed, increase public interest in Black Leopard's monthly trips, which typically reach their capacity of 100 participants.

"Our guests can experience what it's like to spend a few days in the wild without any interference from mobile phones or other electronics," Li says.

They'll learn how to identify flowers and animals on high mountains untouched by human activity, cook together and fetch water from the woods.

They can also share stories with the inhabitants of ancient villages.

"Most of our guests are parents, who bring their children," Li says.

"They want their kids to see what true nature is like. Some children even take home wolf feces as souvenirs."

The May Day excursion that focused on sketching wildlife targeted kids.

Hou says she recommended her parent friends to join.

She noticed the children were more focused than adults when undertaking her tour's tasks.

Enterprises' social responsibility departments also book Black Leopard trips for employees.

The group has developed 16 routes for travelers.

Most tours last two days and cost 450 yuan ($69) for food and lodging.

"I have a new understanding of the natural environment's importance from the trip," Hou says.

"It's something I pay more attention to now."

Contact the writer at yangfeiyue@chinadaily.com.cn

About this series

China Daily explores ecotourism destinations and activities throughout spring.