An Asian dowitcher, a critically endangered bird species, is discovered in a lake in Huzhou's Nanxun district. [Photo/WeChat account: huzhoufabu]

A significant discovery was recently made in Huzhou's Nanxun district, as the critically endangered Asian dowitcher was spotted for the first time ever in the city.

Despite being cautious and shy, the Asian dowitcher walks steadfastly forward while looking for food. It searches for insects, worms, and mollusks by inserting its bill into the mud.

This bird migrates through China in small groups between March and May, and again between August and October. Regrettably, it is classified as a near-threatened species on the red list of the International Union for Conservation of Nature. As of February 2021, it is listed as a second-class protected wild animal in China.

The flourishing of rare and endangered species in Huzhou over recent years indicates that the ecological environment in the area is improving, highlighting the importance of preserving the natural habitats of animals and plants.