Five Dalmatian pelicans, a species under the first class state protection, were spotted at the Yellow River wetland in Yinchuan, the capital of northwestern Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, on Thursday, adding vitality to its spring landscape.
Local wetland monitors observed the rare waterbirds during routine patrols, saying that the arrival of the pelicans has further enriched the region's biodiversity records.
It was the second time this year that the wetland has hosted a group of nationally protected species. In mid-February, monitors documented a flock of 28 great bustards overwintering at the site.
According to animal experts, Dalmatian pelicans, listed as endangered, are highly demanding of their habitats, requiring clean water, abundant food resources, and ecological tranquility. Their presence in the Yellow River wetland in Ningxia's regional capital reflects sustained improvements in water quality, flourishing vegetation, and plentiful food supply, underscoring the area's growing suitability as a habitat.
Five rare Dalmatian pelicans spotted at Ningxia's Yellow River wetland
The 16th Beijing International Film Festival unfolded a "water red carpet" along a section of the Grand Canal in Tongzhou District, its sub-venue, on Friday night, when dazzling lights and illuminations brought the ancient waterway vividly to life.
The "water red carpet" stretched 3.3 kilometers on the canal, the world's longest and oldest man-made waterway spanning roughly 1,794 km, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Five tour boats carried guests on the water, and after that they stepped onto a 100-meter red carpet along the waterfront.
Another highlight of the evening was the official premiere and maiden voyage of Journey on the Canal, a large-scale water spectacle performance that is part of activities held by the film festival's Tongzhou sub-venue.
With real scenes of the Grand Canal as the backdrop and stage, spectators from tour boats with panoramic ceilings enjoyed the 55-minute immersive performance that presents the canal's thousand-year history along a 3.5-kilometer stretch of the river.
Designed by renowned artist Han Meilin, the production features artistic installations in combination with advanced technology, including stunning water curtain projections, laser displays and dynamic lighting effects.
Tongzhou District, located in the southeast of Beijing, serves as the sub-center of the Chinese capital. The area is developing into a modern urban hub while preserving its rich Grand Canal heritage.
The festival is running from April 16 to 25.
Beijing film festival unfolds 'water red carpet' on Grand Canal
