The sites were a joint effort by the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Aquatic Wildlife Conservation Association, the World Wide Fund for Nature and the Save the Yangtze Finless Porpoise Alliance.

In July, 40 porpoise guardians - including 30 former fishermen - were recruited at the four sites to patrol 719 square kilometers of water and protect 380 porpoises. Next year, a further 1,000 guardians will be recruited.

"They are of great help in our work," said Li Feng, deputy director of the Yueyang Fishery Administration. "Most of them used to be fishermen, so they know all about the water and fishing activities. That helps to prevent illegal fishing."

Yang Tianxi, a 49-year-old ex-fisherman, became a guardian in July, following a tough selection procedure that lasted two months.

"I earn 3,000 yuan per month, much less than I earned before. But I love the job because I can see and protect the porpoises every day; they are like old friends. Friends should protect each other," he said.

Contact the writers at chengsi@chinadaily.com.cn