Nearly 300 eastern white white storks are spotted in China

Nearly 300 eastern white storks, an endangered bird species, have been spotted in the Nandagang Wetland, a World Heritage Site in northern China. This is reported by CGTN, a partner of TV BRICS.

The eastern white stork, which is under the highest category of protection in China, is considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Nandagang is an important stopover and breeding point for migratory birds. In recent years, a natural ecosystem complex consisting of water bodies, shoals and islands suitable for habitat has been gradually restored here.

Due to the improved ecological situation, over 100,000 migratory birds were recorded in the wetland in 2023, up from 20,000 in 2019.

From October to December every year, there is a migration of birds to the site. Eastern white storks have high requirements for their living environment; they can only exist in suitable wetlands with an abundance of food and water resources, as well as a good ecological environment.

During last year's harsh winter, storks used their long beaks to poke through thin ice near the roots of reeds, catching fish hiding underwater. 

The site provides the storks with a rich food source and suitable living conditions in different seasons.

The reserve management will continue to strengthen daily patrols and monitoring using artificial intelligence technology to ensure comfortable living conditions for migrating birds.

Photo: iStock