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Pheasant-tailed jacanas are found in Haiyoan county, Jiaxing, Zhejiang province. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]

A group of pheasant-tailed jacanas has made a new home on Huxin island in the Qianmudang drinking water source protection zone in Haiyoan county, Jiaxing, Zhejiang province.

According to Lu Yi from the Jiaxing ecological environment bureau, six adult pheasant-tailed jacanas and five nests with 16 chicks were observed. These summer migratory birds, usually seen for only a few weeks before moving on, have decided to stay longer this year.

The pheasant-tailed jacanas, known for their long toes and vibrant plumage, can walk on floating plants like water lilies and lotuses. They practice polyandry, where each nest contains three to four eggs, and the male birds incubate them. The chicks hatch in 22-26 days, with the male guarding them.

Qianmudang, the only drinking water source in Haiyan, offers an ideal breeding environment with its excellent water quality and closed management. This has made it a perfect sanctuary for the pheasant-tailed jacanas.

"The arrival of the jacanas enriches Haiyan's biodiversity and reflects the health of the local ecosystem," said Lu. Plans are underway to livestream bird observations to the public, promoting ecological protection.

Jiaxing has recorded 4,465 species, including 1,248 higher plants, 302 bird species, and 1,432 aquatic organisms. The frequent appearance of rare species reflects Jiaxing's improving ecological environment.

The city will continue carrying out biodiversity protection projects and establish a monitoring network to promote harmony between humans and nature.