Swimming, diving and frolicking, a number of dolphins are attracting waves of cheering from a few nearby motorboats. The dolphins are pinkish white, light or dark gray with big humps and slightly curved fins.

They are the Chinese White Dolphins, which are unique to China and a top state-protected wildlife.

They live along the southeast Chinese coast, but researchers around the world say the number of Chinese white dolphins have declined from 20 populations to only five in recent years. This is mainly due to shipping and costal economic development. However, researchers found that of all known populations, those that live in Sanniang Bay in Qinzhou, Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region appear to be the least affected.

Sanniang Bay has been drafting some ambitious blueprints to attract more tourists, including plans to build at least one five-star hotel. But experts do warn authorities that while Sanniang Bay has attracted more than a million tourists a year for its dolphins since 2008, it needs to put all measures in place to protect this rare species. The Qinzhou government has vowed to ensure a win-win outcome for both the economy and the Chinese White Dolphins.

Video: Sun Peng

Story: Li Xing

Photos: Huo Yan

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