Jinhu National Wetland Park: A haven for birds and biodiversity

Zhijiang Jinhu National Wetland Park will implement phased traffic restrictions and noise control measures to protect nesting birds. The park announced this initiative with the ecological environment and wildlife protection departments on May 19.

From May to July, the park experiences peak breeding season for waterbirds, including the whiskered tern. These species are drawn to Jinhu National Wetland Park for its tranquil environment and abundant aquatic plants.

Whiskered terns nest and incubate their eggs in the lotus ponds at Jinhu National Wetland Park. (Photo by Wu Yanling.)
 

After restoration and conservation efforts, Jinhu National Wetland Park now spans 733 hectares, with water transparency reaching 90 centimeters. Pollution control, slope protection, lake restoration, and vegetation reconstruction have established a healthy ecological cycle.

In the past five years, more than 10,000 migratory birds have come to breed here annually, making Jinhu a key stopover for birds along the Yangtze River.

Biodiversity at Jinhu Wetland has increased, with vascular plant species rising from 198 across 168 genera to 204 across 173 genera. The number of bird species has also grown, from 141 to 184, including one national first-class protected species, the Baer's Pochard, and four national second-class protected species.

As a "nursery" for birds, Jinhu National Wetland Park has attracted over 400 regular birdwatchers and photographers nationwide, welcoming more than 10,000 visitors daily.