On Feb 8, a male crested ibis at a breeding center in Sichuan province broke its lower beak while fighting for a mate. On March 19, it underwent an operation to give it a 3D-printed replacement. On Wednesday, the bird was seen picking loach from the mud, a sure sign it has recovered well.

The crested ibis is not the only animal benefiting from 3D-printing technology. News records of 2019 show a duck got a new foot, a dog a new left paw and a deer its entire leg, all thanks to 3D-printing technology.

The replacements were not as good as the original limbs, but they could at least help the animals stand again; in fact, the duck could even swim again, though it does not make much use of its feet while swimming.

Some have asked why humans must spend so much for helping animals. But other species are our fellow residents on the planet and helping them shows we have compassion. The more social development takes place, the more animal welfare there should be.

Besides, the application will benefit humans, too. The 3-D printing technology faces many challenges. Are the materials safe? Is a 3D-printed limb strong enough to support the body?

How does one ensure that a 3D-printed limb will perfectly fit an animal's body? But once animals use these limbs conveniently, 3D-printed limbs could be extended to humans. The next step could be man-made nerves, blood vessels and muscles, helping the disabled regain their ability to use limbs.

Such a technology helps us to shower our love on our fellow beings on planet Earth, and it could in turn help humans extend their stay on the planet.
JIN DING/CHINA DAILY