In a remarkable ecological turnaround, a sandbar along the Yellow River in southern Gansu Province has become a vital breeding ground for nearly 10,000 migratory birds. Locally dubbed 'duck egg island' for its oval shape and abundant waterfowl, this stretch near Maqu County now buzzes with life as bar-headed geese and ruddy shelducks raise their chicks each spring.
The resurgence follows years of environmental restoration efforts along China's 'Mother River,' with improved water quality and habitat protection creating safe nesting conditions. Conservationists report a 40% increase in migratory bird populations since 2018, turning the area into a living laboratory for sustainable ecosystem management.
Local herders have adapted their practices to protect the nursery, with many participating in citizen science programs. 'The birds' return signals our river's health,' said Tashi, a nomadic guide who leads educational tours. 'Their chicks' first flights mirror our children growing up – both need careful nurturing.'
This ecological success story offers potential models for balancing development and conservation across Asia's major river systems. Researchers from Lanzhou University will begin tracking bird migration patterns this fall to study the Yellow River's growing role in global avian pathways.
