Once a historical refuge for Qing Dynasty boats, Dongting Lake's Duogan Islet is now making waves as a critical sanctuary for migratory birds. Conservationists report a 40% increase in wintering waterbird populations over the past five years at China's second-largest freshwater lake, located in Hunan Province.
The transformation began with wetland restoration projects covering 50 square kilometers of degraded habitat. "We've created a network of artificial islands and submerged vegetation belts," explained Dr. Li Wei, an ecologist leading the initiative. "These measures protect endangered species like the Siberian crane while maintaining flood control capabilities."
Local authorities have partnered with international organizations to implement smart monitoring systems using AI-powered cameras and satellite tracking. Recent surveys identified 12 new bird species in the area, including the rare black-faced spoonbill.
The conservation drive aligns with China's broader ecological civilization goals, balancing environmental protection with sustainable development. Eco-tourism initiatives have increased local incomes by 25% since 2022, demonstrating how environmental stewardship can drive economic growth.
