In the Heihe River Wetland Nature Reserve in Zhangye, black storks search for food. [Photo/Gansu Daily]

Peak bird migration season has come to Gansu province, with flocks stopping at lakes and wetlands across the region.

At Dingxi Lake, the number of birds such as coots has increased significantly, a sign of the area's improved ecology. In Minqin's Shiyang River Wetland, cranes and spoonbills dance above the water at dawn, composing a serene morning scene. At Jiuquan's Dongbula Reservoir, autumn colors frame resting waterbirds, while over 2,000 egrets fly together above the Danghe River in Dunhuang, against the backdrop of the setting sun and the sand dunes.

In the Yanchiwan Wetlands, a major national wetland at the northern foothills of the Qilian Mountains, black-necked cranes, bar-headed geese, and ruddy shelducks are gathering energy before their long journey south. This area serves as a critical part of the global migratory bird network, playing an irreplaceable role in maintaining biodiversity.

In parallel, the Heihe River Wetland Nature Reserve in Zhangye has made a research breakthrough in tracking the migration of black storks. Since 2022, 25 black storks have been fitted with satellite trackers, allowing researchers to map their complete spring and autumn migration routes for the first time — key data for the conservation of this endangered species.

Under the vast skies and along clear waters, Gansu is writing a new chapter in ecological coexistence, guarding the flyways with care and commitment.