Revived desert wetland in north China becomes paradise for migratory birds

A dramatic transformation has taken place at the once-murky Shahu Lake scenic area in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, turning the site into a paradise for migratory birds.

The picturesque Shahu, a lake surrounded by desert in the outskirts of Ningxia's Shizuishan City, welcomed its first batch of migratory birds this autumn. As a transit point on the southern migration route for many species, the area will soon see an even greater influx of birds in the coming days.

To support these birds in foraging, a 200-hectare rice field has been planted to ensure a stable food source.

Just eight years ago, however, the marsh was not nearly as welcoming for these feathered creatures. Stagnant water resulted in the breeding of pathogens that caused widespread fish deaths and the extinction of aquatic plants.

In 2017, local authorities initiated comprehensive ecological management to address poor water circulation. A 400-hectare wetland was built adjacent to the core water area, allowing the water to flow freely and undergoing internal recycling and purification.

The water quality significantly improved after three years of efforts.

Now, a total of 32 previously unseen bird species have been discovered in the wetland area, including black storks, a first-class state protected species. The total number of bird species has risen from fewer than 180 to over 210. Migratory birds such as grey geese and cormorants have even turned the wetland a long-term habitat.

In recent years, Ningxia has protected and restored nearly 40,000 hectares of wetlands, established 26 wetland parks and four nature reserves to create a suitable habitat for birds, as well as an attractive site for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers.

The region has also made strides in reviving the ecosystems and natural environments in all of its diverse terrain, from deserts to grasslands.

Today, the ratio of days with air quality rated "excellent" in cities at and above prefecture level in Ningxia has remained above 80 percent for nine consecutive years. The water quality for the section of the Yellow River within Ningxia has remained at grade II – meaning fit for direct human touch – for seven consecutive years. The forest coverage exceeded 11 percent and the grassland vegetation coverage reached 56.8 percent, and the proportion of sandified areas has decreased from 85 percent to 19.31 percent.

Populations of major wild animals, such as blue sheep and red deer have continued to grow, and even snow leopards, which had been absent for many years, have made a return to Ningxia.