Along the banks of the Yellow River in Pinglu County, Yuncheng City of north China's Shanxi Province, flocks of gray herons are enjoying the warmer temperature. They are spotted on the steep cliff on both sides of the river.

The gray heron is a long-legged wading bird. It has a gray body and wings with black stripes extending along the long neck. It is included on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Threatened Species. It generally nests on cliffs.

The Yellow River is China's second longest river. With a temperate climate and abundant food, wetlands along the river are paradises for migratory birds. 

(All photos via CFP.)

(If you want to contribute and have specific expertise, please contact us at nature@cgtn.com.)