Lianzhou City in Qingyuan, northern Guangdong, is a key node along the Nanling Ecological Corridor and an important stopover for migratory birds traveling between northern and southern China. Every autumn and winter, tens of thousands of birds rest and feed here. Recently, the city was named among the first batch of "Beautiful China Signature Sites."
Birds are a key indicator of ecological health. Species such as egrets have become easier to spot in the wild. Nationally protected birds, including the Chinese merganser and the glossy ibis, have been recorded in Lianzhou in recent years. This reflects the steady improvement of the local ecosystem. To create better-connected habitats for wildlife, the city has expanded afforestation, restored wetlands and rehabilitated former mining sites.
To protect migratory birds, Lianzhou has established a cross-provincial conservation mechanism with Lanshan County in neighboring Hunan Province, conducting joint patrols to combat poaching. It has also strengthened monitoring through infrared cameras and bioacoustic devices, thereby improving the efficiency of wildlife protection.
Public participation has become another pillar of conservation. Through sustained awareness campaigns, more residents are taking part in wildlife rescue efforts. This year, more than 80 percent of reports leading to wild animal rescues have come from members of the public.
From ecological restoration and smart conservation to cross-provincial cooperation and community involvement, Lianzhou is protecting a centuries-old migratory bird flyway and advancing the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature.
Author | He Fengyu
Photo | Nanfang Plus
