A number of migratory birds in a wetland in northwest China's Gansu Province seem to have delayed their trip to the south despite the arrival of winter this year, thanks to improved environment.

Usually most birds begin their migration in early November or even late October, but in Yanchiwan Nature Reserve of Subei County, migratory birds including pochards and whooper swans were seen either foraging on the bank, swimming in the lake, or hovering over the water.

A local environmental worker said it is his first time he saw such scenes in several decades of his eco-protection career.

"We've found about 70 to 80 whooper swans that are still wandering here. It's the first time we find so many of them at this time of the year. There are also 40 to 50 blue sheep foraging there across the river, as a result of improved eco-environment," said Shai Yongjun, an inspector working for the nature reserve.

In recent years, local government has taken measures to effectively restore and protect the grassland and wetland resources, which has led to a better habitat for wild animals.

Located at the western part of the Qilian Mountains, the Yanchiwan Nature Reserve is located over 3,000 meters above sea level.

(Cover image via VCG)

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