Migratory birds spotted in the Qingshan Lake wetland
Baillon's crakes are seen in Lin'an
Society
By Zhu Jingning
Hangzhou has long been known for its profound cultural heritages and beautiful natural scenes. Every year from September to December, the West Lake homes four winter migratory birds, namely, cormorants, mandarin ducks, larus vegaes, mergus mergansers, each arriving at their time. Annually, they fly from the north to Hangzhou for the winter and return to the north in the spring to breed.
Lovely white egrets make the city their permanent home and become year-round residents thanks to the improving ecology of the Qiantang Bay wetlands, a stunning 101 sq. km bird sanctuary at the Qiantang River Estuary. It is a vital pitstop for rare bird species during their East Asia-Australasia journey.
Qingshan Lake National Forest Park, dubbed as a paradise for migratory birds, has embraced its first flocks of sky elves this winter, including the newly recorded guests porzana pusillas. Some of these little guests from afar will take a break here for replenishment and look for more desirable waters southwards. Some will settle down and spend the long winter in Lin'an, and then return to the north in the coming spring.
The continuous improvement of the ecological environment greatly raises people's awareness of wildlife protection and enriches bird resources in the city. It is unsurprising in Hangzhou to find people escorting the mandarin ducks across the road or build a bridge for the birds in the West Lake. The hospitality of the city is well reflected in its care for the nature and beautiful creatures.