New dawn for wildlife: 1st arrival of Mandarin Ducks

[Video provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Xiajin county's Xisha River reservoir recently became a vibrant haven for wildlife enthusiasts, after it welcomed its first-ever flock of wild mandarin ducks. Their arrival marks a significant milestone for the region and is an indicator of a thriving natural habitat.

Mandarin ducks are medium-sized ducks measuring 38-45 centimeter and weighing approximately half a kilogram. The males are especially notable for their vividly-colored feathers, which are much brighter than their female counterparts.

These ducks have very particular needs when it comes to their habitat, requiring both substantial forest coverage and a healthy aquatic environment.

Kong Shengli, head of Xiajin county wildlife protection station, emphasizes the importance of the ducks as key indicators of ecological health.

Over the past three years, there has been a noticeable increase in both the diversity and number of bird species in the area, including several rare species like whooper swans, tundra swans, mute swans, and oriental storks.

"Observing the flight patterns and habitats chosen by birds offers a clear insight into the health of an ecosystem," Kong notes.

The appearance of mandarin ducks in Xiajin county for the first time is a testament to the area's commitment to preserving and enhancing its natural environment, heralding a new era of ecological awareness and conservation. (Edited by Cai Liting)