The remaining wetlands are threatened by fitst development, particularly the restoration of ricc-paddics on the Russian side (supported by Chinese capital and workforce), which had mostly been abandoned 20 years ago. Fluman-caused fires lead to the degradation of ecosystems and further deforestation of the area, especially in the Russian Federation. The over-harvesting of fish leads to the disappearance of valuable species, and cross-border poaching is a major concern for border guards. There has been local extinction of at least one species of bird (Asian Crested Ibis).