Qinling Mountains facts for kids

The Qinling Mountains are a huge mountain range in China. Most of these mountains are in the Shaanxi province. They act like a natural wall, dividing the northern and southern parts of the country. These mountains are home to many different kinds of plants and wildlife. Some of these amazing creatures and plants can only be found here on Earth!

Qinling Mountains: China's Natural Divide

The Qinling Mountains are a very important natural feature in China. They stretch across the country, mainly in the Shaanxi province. Think of them as a giant natural barrier. This barrier separates the northern and southern parts of China. Because of this, the climate and even the types of plants and animals are very different on each side of the mountains.

Where Are the Qinling Mountains?

Most of the Qinling Mountains are located in the eastern part of Shaanxi province. This province is in the central part of China. The mountains also reach into other nearby provinces. They are a long chain of peaks and valleys. This makes travel and communication between north and south China more difficult.

Home to Unique Wildlife

The Qinling Mountains are a special place for animals. Many animals live here that you cannot find anywhere else in the world. This makes the mountains a very important area for protecting wildlife.

• Giant Panda: The Qinling Mountains are one of the last places where wild Giant Pandas live. These pandas are a special type, known as the Qinling panda. They have unique brown and white fur, unlike the more common black and white pandas.
• Golden Snub-nosed Monkey: These monkeys have bright blue faces and long, golden fur. They live in the high, cold forests of the Qinling Mountains. They are very social animals and live in large groups.
• Takins: Takins are large, goat-like animals. They have thick, shaggy coats and strong horns. They are well-suited for living in the rugged mountain terrain.
• Clouded Leopard: This beautiful and shy wild cat also lives in these mountains. It is known for its unique cloud-like spots.

Amazing Plants and Trees

Just like the animals, the plants in the Qinling Mountains are also very diverse. The mountains have many different types of forests. These forests change as you go higher up the mountains.

• At lower levels, you can find broadleaf trees. These are trees that lose their leaves in autumn.
• Higher up, you will see more evergreen trees. These trees keep their leaves all year round.
• The mountains are also home to many rare and beautiful flowers. Scientists are still discovering new plant species here.

The Qinling Mountains are truly a natural treasure. They help keep China's environment healthy. They also protect many unique plants and animals for future generations.

Images for kids

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  Detailed view of various mountain ranges and passes between Shaanxi and Sichuan

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  Mount Shaohua

See also

In Spanish: Cordillera Qin para niños