A crested ibis is released from a cage upon arriving at the Yancheng National Rare Birds Nature Reserve in Jiangsu province on June 6. [Photo/hz66.com]

Ten crested ibis were successfully transported from the breeding base in Xiazhu Lake, Deqing county, Huzhou to their new home facing the sea – the Yancheng National Rare Birds Nature Reserve in Jiangsu province on June 6.

This marks a significant milestone in the reconstruction of crested ibis populations in South China.

On May 18, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration authorized the transfer of twenty crested ibis from Zhejiang to the Yancheng National Rare Birds Nature Reserve.

The crested ibis is an endangered species, receiving first-class national protection, and is often referred to as the "giant panda of birds"  or the "Oriental Gem" due to its breathtaking beauty.

Several crested ibis are pictured at the Yancheng National Rare Birds Nature Reserve in Jiangsu province on June 6. [Photo/hz66.com]