Editor's note: As protection of the planet's flora, fauna and resources becomes increasingly important, China Daily is publishing a series of stories to illustrate the country's commitment to safeguarding the natural world.

In the nation's first instance, a short-finned pilot whale was released into its natural habitat, thanks to the dedicated efforts of more than 200 people who joined hands to save the stranded creature.

The whale has spent 145 days in an oceanic park before it was released into the ocean where it belongs.

It all began on Jan 3, when the whale was spotted stranded on the sandy shores of Haitang Bay in Sanya, Hainan province, sustaining unclear injuries. Marine police, conservationists and volunteers rushed to the scene, and managed to send the whale to the Sanya Haichang Animal Conservation Center.