Zhang and a baby deer. [Photo/WeChat account: linanfabu]

A gentle call of deer has echoed through the deep mountains of western Zhejiang province for over three decades — and now, it resonates nationwide, earning widespread recognition.

On Oct 15, Zhang Shuyan, head of the Qianqingtang conservation station at Qingliang Peak National Nature Reserve in Lin'an district, Hangzhou, was named a China's Good Samaritan in the dedication and professionalism category.

For 36 years, Zhang has lived in the mountains, patrolling over 15 kilometers daily to safeguard vast stretches of forest. Through his lens, he captured the first-ever images of the South China sika deer in the region, providing crucial evidence that helped the area earn national nature reserve status. Thanks to his efforts, the deer population has grown from just three to more than 100.

The South China sika deer inhabit the nature reserve. [Photo/WeChat account: linanfabu]

Affectionately known as the father of deer, Zhang has documented and helped rehabilitate endangered species, leading semi-ecological breeding programs and releasing dozens of deer back into the wild.

Beyond his fieldwork, he has devoted himself to environmental education by sharing his passion for nature through photography, social media, and teaching.

Zhang's story, showcased at the 5th World Congress of Biosphere Reserves in Hangzhou, stands as a testament to his lifelong commitment to harmony between humans and nature — a quiet guardian who transformed solitude into symphony and perseverance into a lasting legacy.

Zhang feeds a baby deer. [Photo/WeChat account: linanfabu]