Birdwatching is gaining popularity among China's elderly photography lovers, as thriving ecosystems attract vibrant birdlife. In Mangba Village, Yunnan Province, the colorful parrots nesting in ancient banyan trees draw senior shutterbugs all year round. Locals have embraced this boom by offering accommodation, meals, and transportation to birdwatchers.

In Hunan's Lanshan County, a stopover on a key bird migration route, tourism services have also been improved. The county provides older tourists with professional medical staff, first aid equipment, free health checks and medication for chronic diseases.

Known as the "second hometown" of the crested ibis, Luoshan County in Henan welcomes around 30,000 visitors annually – 80 percent of whom are seniors. Local authorities have designated 69 viewing spots and built 60 hotels and restaurants to cater to birdwatchers. More than just a hobby, birdwatching has become a blossoming industry in its own right.