Young whooper swans practice flying in Rongcheng, Shandong province, to prepare for their upcoming long-distance migration. [Photo by Li Xinjun/For chinadaily.com.cn]

Young whooper swans have begun to practice flying in Rongcheng, Shandong province, to prepare for their upcoming long-distance migration.

These swans have been diligently practicing to build their physical strength and develop coordination among the group, said the Rongcheng National Nature Reserve.

Rongcheng has attracted an increasing number of birds in recent years due to ecological restoration and protective measures. Tens of thousands of whooper swans migrate from Siberia to the coastal county to spend the winter.