After that incident, Nie said he found that the government was supportive so he decided to volunteer for environmental protection activities.

"Although several people dislike or even hate me doing this, the Changde city government, forestry bureau and forestry police gave me the confidence and support to stop those illegal activities," he said.

"For years, my parents have not understood or supported me, but I don't care. I will move along the road to environmental protection because I like green mountains and rivers. I believe that I am saving all the people on earth, including myself and my family. I am single and I love to find joy among the mountains and waters."

In 2017, he was given an award by a local environmental NGO for his efforts to protect wild birds.

Now, Nie has begun focusing his efforts on the safety of water resources. In the past two years, he has collected evidence and reported many violations such as illegal pearl farming, electric fishing and river blocking to government departments.

Nie has also helped form WeChat groups of more than 400 people-mostly made up of students from local colleges-to inform each other of illegal hunting activities.

"Only those who really care about public welfare and the environment can unite together for this work," Nie said.

"We are not doing this for profit, it is just for our own conscience. And we will be a good helper for the local government and act as its eyes."