The Tumuji National Nature Reserve, located in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, is a well-known "depot" for migrating birds. Currently, there are more than 100,000 birds stopping and resting here, restoring energy to prepare for the next northward journey.

According to staff of the reserve, among these birds, the Siberian crane, which is a rare species under the first-class state protection in China, has a population of more than 1,500, 37 percent of the global total. The population of another crane called the Eurasian crane, which is under the second-class state protection, is 4,500. Both bird species saw a population increase compared to last year.

The Tumuji National Nature Reserve's flourishing environment attracts many migrating birds to rest and forage here every year. Currently, there are 310 bird species here. For the safety of these birds, local facilities have ramped up patrols to ensure their safety.

(Cover image via VCG)

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