A flock of glossy ibises — a first-class nationally protected species in China, rarer than giant pandas — has been sighted in Qingdao's coastal wetlands, sparking excitement among conservationists and nature enthusiasts. The iridescent birds, whose feathers shift between bronze and green in sunlight, were observed foraging in the restored marshlands of Shandong Province.
Local experts note this sighting marks a milestone for regional biodiversity, attributing their return to decades-long wetland protection initiatives. Once threatened by habitat loss, these migratory birds now find sanctuary in Qingdao's revitalized ecosystems, which have seen expanded green corridors and pollution control measures since 2015.
With only about 1,000 glossy ibises estimated across China, their presence offers tangible evidence of ecological progress. The discovery aligns with broader national efforts to protect 30% of land and coastal areas by 2030 under China's biodiversity strategy.
