China's natural wetlands have welcomed flocks of rare migratory birds in late October, as these scenic and well-preserved areas provide ideal stopovers or destinations for the winter migration of these feathered creatures.
Black-necked cranes, a species under national first-class protection, typically begin their southward winter migration from northwest China's Qinghai Province in mid to late October.
An extensive wetland on the border of Ulan County and Gonghe County in the province offers a suitable environment for more than a hundred black-necked cranes to stop, forage, and rest during their migration. Here, they can refresh themselves before continuing their journey south.
Currently, there are over 2,600 black-necked cranes across Qinghai, an increase of more than 1,400 compared to 10 years ago, according to the Forestry and Grassland Bureau of Qinghai Province.
Meanwhile, a coastal wetland in east China's Lianyungang City has welcomed various species of rare migratory birds, such as the oriental white stork and the Eurasian spoonbill, which have arrived to spend their winter here.
Situated along the East Asian-Australasian flyway, this 233,000-hectare wetland, with abundant natural and ecological resources, has become an ideal winter habitat. In recent years, the local government has enhanced its efforts in the ecological restoration of coastal wetlands, effectively attracting a large number of migratory birds to the area.
Migratory birds spotted in China's natural wetlands
