With weather turning cold, tens of thousands of swans migrating southward made a stop at Hulun Lake, also known as Dalai Nur Lake, in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on Monday.

The swans will stay in the area for two to four weeks and then, after a good rest, continue their trip.

"The swans have been arriving since the end of September. The number usually reaches the peak in mid-October, around 30,000. They will continue their journey south at the end of October," said a local police officer of Hexigten Banner, Chifeng City.

Located in Hexigten Banner, Hulun Lake is the second largest inland lake in Inner Mongolia. It is also an important migration passage for birds in northern China.

In recent years, the locals have created a good environment for the migratory birds to inhabit the area and breed, leading to an increase in the number and species of birds coming in.

To better protect swans and other migratory birds, the local forest police have set up a number of management and protection sites around the lake. They have strengthened inspection of the lake and wetlands where migratory birds gather, and patrol from time to time throughout the day to ensure the birds' safety.

(Cover via CFP)

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