Along China's eastern coast lies a magical land where ocean, wetlands, and forests converge. With tides rolling in and flocks of birds soaring above, this is Yancheng, Jiangsu Province.
In 1992, Yancheng was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, becoming a model of coastal ecological protection in China. Covering about two-fifths the size of Shanghai, it is China's largest coastal reserve and one of the few well-preserved natural coastal zones.
Yancheng is a vital stopover on the East Asian–Australasian Flyway, with over 20 million migratory birds passing through annually. It is also the world's largest wintering ground for the western population of red-crowned cranes, hosting 400 to 600 each year.
During bird migration season, red-crowned cranes, grey cranes, oriental white storks, and others soar above vast wetlands, painting a vivid scene of life. Over the years, Yancheng has restored more than 310,000 acres of wetlands, providing stable habitats for over 2,500 species.
To better protect this ecological gem, the reserve works with institutions like the Aerospace Information Research Institute of CAS to implement high-altitude tracking, drone, and ground monitoring system for smart, real-time ecological management.
Don't miss the awe-inspiring sight of birds returning to roost when you visit Yancheng.
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Beijing, China (100864)
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