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A flock of birds in Jiaxing, Zhejiang province. [Photo/jiaxingren.com]

The Taipu River Changbaidang Drinking Water Source Protection Area in Jiashan county, Jiaxing, is a lively ecological paradise.

Since mid-October, over 1,000 migratory birds have arrived, with more expected as the weather cools. Rich in vegetation, this area serves as a wintering ground for birds like mandarin ducks and swans from late October to March.

On Nov 7, Qian Chunming of the Jiaxing ecological environment bureau Haining branch, along with a research team, spotted a pair of Dalmatian pelicans, a national first-class protected species, among a group of egrets, herons, wild ducks, and spoonbills near the Jiashao Bridge.

"Last year, we first saw Dalmatian pelicans here. Coming nearly half a month earlier than last year is huge," Qian explained. These birds require safe environments and migrate south for winter, leaving in spring when the weather warms.

Biodiversity is crucial for our survival and harmony with nature. Jiaxing's commitment to ecological preservation and green development includes an extensive biodiversity survey completed last year, recording 4,465 species, including 302 bird species and 67 rare and endangered species.

"Improving ecological conditions has led to increased sightings of rare flora and fauna in Jiaxing. We anticipate even more 'old friends' will make Jiaxing their home," said a Jiaxing ecological environment bureau official.