HOHHOT, Jan. 12 (Xinhua) -- Large herds of Procapra gutturosa, a gazelle species, have been spotted in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, highlighting local environmental improvement.

The number of the gazelle, which is under second-class state protection, is estimated to reach about 10,000 at a grassland in the Xilingol League, according to the local forest police.

The police officers said such a large number is rare and may be the result of the ecological restoration and wildlife protection measures taken in recent years.

The wild Procapra gutturosa in the region had once seen a plummet in population due to environmental deterioration and hunting but increased patrol and a crackdown on illegal activities have protected the local wildlife.

Together with gazelles, police officers on patrol also found a large number of other rare animals including the endangered Equus hemionus in the grassland.