Large Primeval Forest Discovered in Southwest China

Xinhua, 17 March 2002

NANNING, March 17 (Xinhua)—A large area of primeval forest has been discovered in southwest China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

With a total area of 74.8 square kilometers, the forest is located in Zhaoping County, and has never been exposed to human exploitation.

In addition to numerous kinds of plants, the forest is also home to a a large variety of animals such as pangolins and boars, many of which are among the list of the rarest species in China.

The local government has filed an application with the central departments, hoping to develop the forest into a national nature reserve.

Mo Xueling, director of the tourism bureau of Zhaoping County, said the forest will not be opened to visitors until the necessary environmental protection measures have been made.