In a remarkable sign of ecological resurgence, the Heihe Wetland National Nature Reserve in northwest China’s Gansu Province is witnessing a significant increase in migratory bird populations, especially the endangered black stork.
Recent data from the reserve’s management bureau indicate that 82 black stork nests have been discovered in Zhangye City, with 32 of them identified as active breeding nests. This year alone, 27 young black storks have successfully fledged, marking an increase of four nests compared to the previous year.
“The black stork is incredibly selective when it comes to its habitat, particularly its foraging waters,” said Shan Guofeng, an official from the nature reserve’s management bureau. “Their stable breeding in the Heihe wetlands is a testament to the positive impact of our environmental efforts. It’s rewarding to see our hard work bearing fruit.”
The Heihe Wetland National Nature Reserve has intensified its ecological conservation measures in recent years. These efforts include habitat restoration, stricter enforcement of environmental regulations, and enhanced monitoring of wildlife populations. The flourishing of the black stork population is seen as a direct result of these initiatives.
The black stork (Ciconia nigra) is listed as an endangered species, known for its sensitivity to environmental changes and preference for pristine wetland habitats. The increase in their numbers within the reserve highlights the success of conservation programs and underscores the importance of wetland ecosystems in biodiversity preservation.
Beyond the black stork, the Heihe wetlands serve as a crucial stopover and breeding ground for numerous migratory bird species traversing the East Asian-Australasian Flyway. The reserve’s enhanced conditions not only benefit local wildlife but also contribute to global conservation efforts.
“Our commitment to protecting the wetland ecosystem is unwavering,” added Shan. “We are dedicated to ensuring that the Heihe wetlands remain a safe haven for migratory birds and an example of successful conservation.”
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
