A growing number of black-necked cranes have returned to the Caohai National Nature Reserve in Guizhou Province, southwest China, to spend the winter, reflecting the success of ongoing ecological protection efforts. As of Monday, the reserve has recorded over 2,400 black-necked cranes, a steady increase compared to previous years.

The reserve has also welcomed about 34,000 other birds, including grey cranes, bar-headed geese, and bone-headed chickens. To safeguard these migratory visitors, a grid-based patrol system has been set up for inspections and supervision.

“I’m in charge of the largest among the seven nocturnal habitats, which is also the site with the largest number of black-necked cranes. During the same period last year, there were about 800… This year, the number has increased to around 1,100,” said ranger Ma Mindian.

Thanks to ongoing efforts to protect the wetland ecosystem, the reserve now hosts 252 bird species, underscoring a positive trend for endangered wildlife.

Source: China Central Television