(ECNS) -- Songhua Lake in northeast China’s Jilin Province is seeing growing numbers of migratory birds, reflecting improving ecological conditions in the area.
Chinese mergansers, considered an indicator species of water quality, have long inhabited the Hongshi forest area.
Recent monitoring found about 50 individuals, including family groups, suggesting a stable breeding population, according to Hongshi Forestry Co., Ltd. of Jilin Changbai Mountain Forestry Group.
To protect the species, the forest area has set up a monitoring system combining video surveillance, patrols and drones, while surveying nesting trees and planning artificial nest boxes.
The ecological improvements have also attracted large flocks of other migratory birds, with more than 10,000 bean geese and greylag geese gathering in the Jiaohe section of the lake.
Local authorities have strengthened waterway management, restricted fishing and carried out fish restocking for more than two decades, helping provide abundant food and suitable habitats for waterbirds.
(By He Mo & intern Liu Shuangjing)
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