Heron flock in Chengdu draws attention with unique feeding behavior

April 1 is International Bird Day, a special occasion to raise public awareness to protect all species of birds. Recently, a flock of grey herons along the Jinjiang River in southwest China's Chengdu City captured public attention with its distinctive feeding habits. The birds stand motionless in the shallow waters for extended periods, occasionally striking with lightning speed to catch fish – a behavior that residents have humorously dubbed "lining up for a flowing banquet."

According to the Chengdu Birdwatching Society, this stance is a strategic way to expand their hunting range. Experts attribute the herons' increased activity to successful ecological restoration efforts along the Jinjiang River. Experts said improved water quality and a rising fish population in recent years have made the area a thriving habitat for herons, egrets, and other bird species, highlighting the harmonious coexistence of urban life and nature.